Az-eddine Ben Jouhra

12/09/2024

Passionate about heritage,I guide your steps in the city and help you to look at it,understand it and love it.
In neighborhoods,as in monuments and museums, I am keen to offer you original routes,to show you these places from unusual angles. My visits are aimed at both individuals & groups.

27/08/2024

Marrakech, also known as the "Red City," is a vibrant and historic city in Morocco that is famous for its bustling souks, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Taking a walking tour of Marrakech is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city's history and culture, and experience its unique blend of Arab, Berber, and European influences. In this essay, I will describe a historical walking tour of Marrakech, highlighting some of the city's most significant landmarks and cultural attractions.

We will begin our tour at the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, which is the heart of Marrakech's old city. This bustling square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a vibrant array of street performers, food vendors, and market stalls. Here, we will see storytellers, snake charmers, acrobats, and musicians, all vying for the attention of the crowds that gather here each day. We will also take a walk through the nearby souks, which are a maze of narrow alleyways lined with shops selling everything from spices and textiles to jewelry and ceramics.

From Jemaa el-Fnaa, we will make our way to the Koutoubia Mosque, which is one of the most iconic landmarks in Marrakech. Built in the 12th century, the Koutoubia Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture and is renowned for its towering minaret, which stands at over 70 meters tall. We will take a walk around the mosque's beautiful gardens and admire its intricate geometric patterns, before heading inside to see the stunning prayer hall and the ornate mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca for Muslims.

Next, we will visit the Bahia Palace, which is a magnificent example of Moroccan palace architecture. Built in the late 19th century, the Bahia Palace was home to the grand vizier of Marrakech and is renowned for its intricate tilework, carved stucco, and beautiful gardens. We will explore the palace's many courtyards, reception halls, and private apartments, and learn about the lives of the royal family who once lived here.

From the Bahia Palace, we will head to the Saadian Tombs, which are a fascinating glimpse into Marrakech's past. The Saadian Tombs were discovered in the early 20th centu

15/03/2024

Djemaa El-Fna Square, known as the heart and soul of Marrakech, is a vibrant and captivating public square located in the bustling medina of the city. Spanning an area of approximately 1000 square meters, Djemaa El-Fna is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a melting pot of Moroccan culture, history, and entertainment.
As the sun begins to set over the red-hued city, Djemaa El-Fna comes alive with a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and scents. The square, enveloped by ancient buildings and bustling souks, is a sensory overload that tantalizes the senses. The air is thick with the aroma of exotic spices, sizzling street food, and the sweet scent of freshly brewed mint tea.
The first thing that strikes you is the mesmerizing display of colors. The square is adorned with vibrant red carpets, intricately woven rugs, and a sea of colorful umbrellas. Traditional Moroccan lanterns, known as "fanoos," cast a warm, golden glow, illuminating the square and creating an enchanting atmosphere.
The heartbeat of Djemaa El-Fna is its people. A diverse mix of locals and tourists intermingle, creating a tapestry of cultures and languages. Street performers, storytellers, and musicians captivate the crowds with their mesmerizing performances. The hypnotic rhythms of the Gnawa musicians blend with the melodies of the traditional Moroccan instruments, like the oud and the darbuka, creating a symphony that echoes through the square.
Food stalls occupy a prominent space in Djemaa El-Fna, forming a culinary paradise for adventurous eaters. The aroma of Moroccan delicacies permeates the air, enticing passersby. The sizzle of skewered meats on open grills, the hiss of aromatic tagines, and the crackle of fresh bread being baked in traditional ovens fill the square. From savory dishes like couscous, harira soup, and grilled kebabs to sweet treats like msemen pancakes, sticky honey pastries, and aromatic mint tea, there is something to satiate every craving.
Amidst the food stalls, you'll find traditional Moroccan artisans showcasing their craft. Intricate woodwork, hand-woven carpets, and colorful ceramics adorn the market stalls, enticing visitors to take home a piece of Moroccan artistry. Skilled henna artists create intricate patterns on eager hands, while snake charmers mesmerize onlookers with their daring performances.
Between the hustle and bustle of the square, you'll find a respite in the surrounding cafes and rooftop terraces. From these vantage points, you can witness the vibrant tableau of Djemaa El-Fna from above. Sipping on a cup of steaming mint tea, you can observe the ebb and flow of the square, the interplay of cultures, and the constant buzz of activity.
Beyond the surface level, Djemaa El-Fna holds a rich historical significance. It has been a gathering place for centuries, serving as a meeting point for traders, travelers, and locals. The square has witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties, the passage of caravans, and the exchange of goods and ideas.

19/06/2023

30/04/2023

Jackets made from Amazigh rugs are a unique and beautiful way to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Amazigh people. These jackets are crafted using traditional weaving techniques that have been passed down through generations, resulting in a piece of clothing that is both functional and visually stunning.

Amazigh rugs are made using natural, locally-sourced materials such as wool and cotton, which are woven into intricate patterns and designs. These rugs are often made by women in rural areas using techniques that have been honed over centuries. The resulting textiles are known for their durability and beauty, and are highly valued by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

To make a jacket from an Amazigh rug, the rug is first carefully selected for its quality and design. The rug is then cut and tailored to fit the desired jacket pattern, with special attention paid to preserving the integrity of the original design. The resulting jacket is a one-of-a-kind piece that showcases the beauty of the rug and the skill of the artisan who crafted it.

One of the most striking features of Amazigh rug jackets is their use of color and pattern. Amazigh rugs are known for their bold, geometric designs and vibrant colors, which are often inspired by the natural landscapes and cultural traditions of the Amazigh people. When these designs are translated into a jacket, the result is a piece of clothing that is both eye-catching and deeply meaningful.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, Amazigh rug jackets are also highly functional. The natural materials used in their construction make them warm and durable, making them ideal for colder climates. The jackets are also versatile, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

One of the unique features of Amazigh rug jackets is their ability to tell a story. Each rug has its own history and meaning, and when that rug is transformed into a jacket, it carries that history and meaning with it. For example, a rug that was made to commemorate a special occasion or event may be transformed into a jacket that serves as a visual reminder of that event.

Amazigh rug jackets are also a symbol of cultural pride and iden