Chronicle
I've been hearing about the Arstsat Moulay Abdeslam cyber park for weeks, but hadn't gotten around to visiting it. I finally checked it out this weekend and was charmed by what I saw.
Arstsat Moulay Abdeslam is a large garden (eight hectares) located within the walls of Marrakech, at the entrance of the Medina. For decades, this garden, established in the 18th century by Prince Moulay Abdeslam, had been neglected. There was fear that it would disappear like many other gardens in the Medina to make way for an ugly new building.
Fortunately, someone had the brilliant (yet risky) idea to entrust the park to Maroc Telecom. It was their responsibility to renovate and rehabilitate it and to showcase their 'technological expertise.'
One could have expected the worst, but it turned out to be a success. It's an oasis of calm, coolness, and serenity just meters from the Jamaa el Fna Square. Wide paths have been laid out among flowering orange trees and ancient olive trees. The garden is thus an interesting compromise between the lushness of Eastern gardens and the structure of European gardens.
Maroc Telecom has installed internet access terminals throughout the park. I tried several, and was surprised to find they all worked and the connection was quite fast (but it's not free; you need a standard phone card).
I am personally very supportive of such initiatives. The budgets of our municipal councils are meager. If private operators can help alleviate this inadequacy by taking over the rehabilitation and maintenance of some parts of our endangered heritage (while promoting themselves in the process), they should be encouraged to do so, while of course maintaining a degree of control and oversight (We wouldn't want to see LG install a giant screen tuned to MTV in the middle of the Koutoubia Mosque's prayer hall...).
Published: Nov 13, 2024
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Mahi Binebine's exhibition "Silent Elevations" has been extended until May 20 at the Mandarin Oriental. This event is a must-see for lovers of contemporary Moroccan art and those who want to explore a unique blend of sculpture and painting.
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Art
In Marrakech, graffiti artists and other street artists have not only made a splash in galleries over the past few years but have also taken to the streets. This is largely thanks to the Marrakech Biennale and the 'Liberty Wall' initiative, which have allowed them to establish their presence and tap into their creative freedom. While waiting to welcome travelers again, the team at Made in Marrakech invites you to explore Marrakech's vibrant street art scene through 10 images. Photo: DR
Escape
At the gates of Marrakech, the mineral-rich Agafay desert has become 'the place to be.' Far from the city's hustle, at the foot of the Atlas mountain range, it’s the perfect spot to recharge for a day or more. Our team reveals our four favorite picks! Photo: Be Agafay
Aperitif
Once the workday ends, we only have a few hours left to meet up with friends and enjoy some much-needed downtime at an afterwork gathering. Whether they are new hotspots or must-visit places in the ochre city, Made in Marrakech shares its current favorite spots.
Getaway
Looking to escape your daily routine, soak up nature, see the sea and feel the sea spray, hike in the mountains and breathe in the fresh air, or simply discover a different atmosphere... The areas around Marrakesh are incredibly diverse! While staying in Morocco, Made in Marrakesh suggests ten getaways accessible by car or plane, thanks to new flight routes, all within three hours. So, what are you up to this weekend? Photo: Samuel C