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El Badi Palace
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Historical site
El Badi Palace in Marrakech, whose name means 'the incomparable', was once one of the most magnificent palaces in the Islamic world. It was built in the late 16th century by the Saadian Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur to celebrate his victory over the Portuguese at the Battle of the Three Kings in 1578. The construction was funded by gold from the trans-Saharan trade and ransoms, lasting about 15 years. The palace consisted of over 360 rooms adorned with the finest materials, including Italian marble, gold leaf, and onyx. Following the decline of the Saadians, the Alaouite Sultan Moulay Ismail ordered the systematic dismantling of the palace in the late 17th century to use the materials for his new capital in Meknes. Today, only the massive mud-brick ruins remain, yet they still provide a sense of the complex's original immense scale. The ruins are now famous for the storks that nest on their high walls.
- Location: Morocco
- Top sights: Jardin de l'Agdal · El Badi Palace · Berrima Mosque
- Nearby: Asni (41 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 10 | 11 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 24 | 29 | 29 | 24 | 21 | 15 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 36 | 31 | 40 | 27 | 16 | 4 | 7 | 7 | 14 | 23 | 54 | 32 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The ruins of El Badi Palace are open to the public, primarily as an open-air site. You can wander among the massive remnants and imagine its former grandeur.
Typical hours
The site is typically open daily from morning until evening, with possible closures on holidays. Exact hours may vary seasonally, so check ahead.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the ruins site without restrictions. The massive walls and empty basins offer striking subjects, especially at sunset.
Time needed
Allow about one hour for a walk around the site, longer if you enjoy the views. The paths are expansive, and you can easily spend more time.
Combine with
Visit the nearby Saadian Tombs and the Koutoubia Mosque right after. El Badi Palace is centrally located in Marrakech, excellent for a combined tour.
Getting there
The palace is located in Marrakech's old town, near the Koutoubia Mosque. It is easily reachable on foot, and taxis can drop you at the mosque square.
Insider tip
Climb onto the walls for one of the best panoramic views over Marrakech. Come in the late afternoon when the light paints the ruins golden.
Geography
Facts
- Construction began in 1578 following the Battle of the Three Kings.
- The main structure was completed around 1593.
- The palace originally featured 360 lavish rooms.
- Dismantling by Moulay Ismail started in 1696.
- The central courtyard measures approximately 135 by 110 meters.
- Houses the 12th-century prayer pulpit (minbar) from the Koutoubia Mosque.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town El Badi Palace (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What remains of the El-Badi Palace?
Mainly ruins, large gardens, and impressive old wall remains.
Can you see the storks?
Yes, many storks nest on the high ruin walls.
When is the best time to visit?
Early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as there is little shade in the gardens.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, a ticket for access to the grounds must be purchased at the booth.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes, they can run around freely in the gardens, but watch out for open wall areas.
El Badi Palace: where is it located?
El Badi Palace is located in Morocco.
El Badi Palace: what is there to see?
Highlights include Jardin de l'Agdal, El Badi Palace, Berrima Mosque.
El Badi Palace: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
El Badi Palace: why is it worth visiting?
El Badi Palace in Marrakech, whose name means 'the incomparable', was once one of the most magnificent palaces in the Islamic world.
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