A large pond, fish, an olive grove, a pavilion, a few palm trees - the Menara is one of the most visited spots in Marrakech, conveniently located not far from the city's hotels and riads. Back then, the vegetation consisted of a few palm trees, some olive trees, and a touch of cypress trees. Let's travel back in time.
At the end of the 19th century, a small Saadian-style pavilion was built. It served as a residence and was known as the Menzeh, with its charming green-tiled pyramidal roof. From its terrace, it offers a breathtaking panorama of Marrakech. Today, the Menara is a serene, charming spot, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Athletes go jogging, walkers enjoy the reflections of the landscape in the water, and lovers savor the sunsets.
An age-old system
The Menara also features an ancient architectural design. Indeed, the pond is filled by a 700-year-old hydraulic system that transports water from the Atlas Mountains. The lake, measuring 150 by 200 meters, helps irrigate the olive grove and other elements of the flora that make up the garden.
Water is collected and then released at the right moment. The reservoir cannot function alone; a person needs to manage its trajectory. Moreover, the pond is teeming with fish, presumably carp, of impressive size. Toss them some bread, and you'll witness a real spectacle!
The Menara and its legends
Several centuries-old legends surround the site. One claims that the pond served as a swimming pool in the 12th century for Almohad soldiers to learn to swim in preparation for crossing the Mediterranean to Al-Andalus by swimming!
Brave and bold! Another legend from a different time suggests that Sultan Moulay Ismail (17th century), a notorious heartbreaker, would drown his conquests after seducing them. Moreover, rumors hint at another story: it is whispered that the pond was built over the treasure Abu Bakr Ibn Omar buried during the Islamic crusades.
The garden
The garden of the Menara is smaller than others like the Agdal, but it is still lushly tended to by many caretakers. Olive trees dominate, but there are also cypresses and palm trees. The beauty of the place is striking, as is the sunset. In the 19th century, the garden was expanded and a mud-brick wall was built around the olive grove.