Bahia Palace
Marrakech-Safi
Bahia Palace, located in Marrakech, Morocco, is a grand 19th-century palace known for its exquisite Moroccan architecture and rich history. Originally begun in the 1860s by Si Musa, a grand vizier under Sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman, the palace was significantly expanded between 1894 and 1900 by his son Ba Ahmed, who was the effective ruler of Morocco during that time. The palace features an irregular layout with approximately 150 rooms organized around multiple courtyards and riad gardens, showcasing lavish painted wood ceilings, sculpted stucco, and intricate zellij tilework. The southern parts of the palace, including the marble-paved Grand Courtyard and private gardens, were developed under Ba Ahmed's direction. The palace was named after Ba Ahmed’s favorite wife, Al-Bahia, meaning "the Brilliant." Over time, it served various roles, including a royal residence and the French Resident-General's home during the protectorate era. Today, Bahia Palace is one of Morocco's most visited heritage sites, admired for its architectural splendor and cultural significance, while still occasionally hosting royal events and foreign dignitaries.
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Tip: The best time to visit Bahia Palace is during the cooler months of the year, avoiding the midday heat to fully appreciate its gardens and courtyards. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance during peak tourist seasons to avoid long queues. Guided tours are beneficial for understanding the rich history and intricate art of the palace. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Visitors should allocate at least one to two hours to explore the extensive grounds and interiors comfortably.
Interesting facts
- •The palace comprises around 150 rooms arranged around multiple courtyards and riad gardens.
- •Its name, 'Bahia', means 'the Brilliant' and was reportedly the name of Ba Ahmed's favorite wife.
- •The entire palace was built on one level, possibly due to Ba Ahmed's physical condition.
- •The palace was looted hours after Ba Ahmed's death in 1900 by order of Sultan Abdelaziz.
- •It remains occasionally used by the King of Morocco to host foreign dignitaries.
- •The palace's expansion altered the street layout of the surrounding neighborhood, overtaking much of the Mellah district.
History
Construction of Bahia Palace began in the 1860s under Si Musa, grand vizier to Sultan Muhammad ibn Abd al-Rahman.
His son, Ba Ahmed, expanded the palace extensively between 1894 and 1900 during his tenure as grand vizier and effective ruler of Morocco.
After Ba Ahmed's death in 1900, the palace became royal property but was looted shortly thereafter.
In the early 20th century, it was used by Madani el-Glaoui and later served as the French Resident-General's residence during the protectorate.
Post-independence, it was a royal residence before becoming a public cultural site under King Hassan II.
Place Guide
Grand Riad and Dar Si Moussa1860s
The northern part of the palace featuring a large riad garden and adjoining rooms dating back to the original construction by Si Musa in the 1860s. Notable for inscriptions dating to 1866–7 and its traditional Moroccan garden layout.
Grand Courtyard1896–7
A vast marble-paved courtyard built during Ba Ahmed's expansion in 1896–7. It is one of the largest spaces in the palace and serves as a central gathering area connecting various parts of the complex.
Southern Courtyards and Private Gardens1894–1900
Added by Ba Ahmed, these include multiple smaller courtyards and lush riad gardens, as well as a private park with a central water basin accessible by a bridge. These areas highlight the palace's blend of architecture and nature.
Contact
Phone: 05 24 38 95 11
