A palace for three important men
Dating back to the 19th century, the Bahia Palace is one of the most significant architectural works in the ochre city. Grand vizier Sidi Moussa had it built with the aim to create the most impressive palace ever, and also to please one of his companions. This explains why the Palace, spreading over 8 hectares, has about 150 rooms and is named “the palace of the beautiful”! It was ultimately the vizier's son, who was the second most important man in the Kingdom, who completed the project and dedicated it to one of his mistresses.
While the exact duration of its construction isn't known, it was long and arduous. This inspired a famous Moroccan saying: "La Bahia est enfin terminée", meaning a matter has remained unresolved for a long time.
From 1912, during the French protectorate, another powerful man of the time, General Lyautey, took over the premises as his personal residence. He added electricity and fireplaces for heating and invited some officers to share the palace with him.
An awe-inspiring visit
In its day, this palace, influenced by Arab-Andalusian architecture, displayed the local artisans' expertise, and although it was looted after the vizier's death, the impressive ceiling decoration and wall paintings still reflect the grandeur of that era and its cultural heritage.
Wandering through the former harem with the vizier's 4 wives and 24 concubines, strolling through the patio lined with fountains and the Andalusian gardens filled with rosemary, orange trees, pomegranates, palms, and various colorful flowers is truly enjoyable. Whether alone or with a guide, it's a visit worth making!