The Bahia Palace: A Historical Gem of Marrakech
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The Bahia Palace, a significant historical landmark in the Moroccan city of Marrakech, dates back to the Alaouite period. It was constructed during the reign of Sultan Abdul Aziz by Ahmed ben Moussa, a prominent statesman known as "Ba Hammad." He enlisted some of the finest craftsmen and artisans to work on the palace for six consecutive years. Unfortunately, fate prevented him from seeing the palace completed before his death.
Architecture and Layout
The Bahia Palace encompasses a variety of wings, halls, annexes, pools, and gardens, including a promenade and a central garden with a renowned basin called "Agdal Ba Hammad." After "Ba Hammad's" death, the palace saw visits from influential figures and became the residence of the pasha of Marrakech, Caid al-Klaoui, in 1906. He added a building to the second floor. Subsequently, the palace was occupied by the governor of the French protectorate, General Lyautey, who installed heating systems and air conditioning. The total area of the palace is approximately 22,000 square meters, though this has been reduced due to the construction of various institutions and facilities in the surrounding large garden, which has since been separated from the palace. The original entrance, located in the new Riad Zitoun neighborhood, was later replaced with a new gateway near the small Riad Salam district.
Current Wings and Sections
Among the sections currently open to visitors is the small Riad, notable for its architecture reminiscent of ancient schools, featuring wooden galleries decorated with vibrant natural colors. This area was once the administrative headquarters for "Ba Hammad," where state affairs were managed. General Lyautey later used it as his residence and office. Its courtyard features marble and zellij tiles and includes four fountains centered around a larger one. The rooms boast unique ceiling decorations.
The smaller courtyard, known as the "squire," houses a marble fountain and was one of "Ba Hammad's" private sections. Its floor combines zellij and marble, surrounded by four large halls with arches and domes, which were used as offices for French officers. Additionally, the main courtyard or the "Great Marble Square" is a vast open space and one of the largest courtyards in the palace. It is bordered by colonnades with 52 wooden columns and has a marble floor. It contains three fountains, one of which is situated in a small basin. This space is often used for musical events and art exhibitions and is surrounded by several rooms with iron-grilled windows.
One of the most important rooms is the northern hall, the largest in the palace. Its walls are partially covered with zellij tiles, and its windows overlook the evergreen Andalusian garden. The room is adorned with plaster friezes and a wooden ceiling with ornate Italian-style panels, the most recent addition to the palace, as indicated by a plaque on one of the walls dated 1899.
Design Evolution and Restoration
From the main courtyard, one can enter the large Riad through a beautifully decorated vestibule. The northern Great Hall contains inscribed poetic verses commemorating its construction. The southern hall underwent several changes, evident in the ceiling designs and decorations, and is adjacent to the noblewife's wing, which features a wooden-roofed courtyard with two halls and a reception area.
The Bahia Palace is a stunning example of Moroccan architectural craftsmanship, distinguished by its richly decorated doors and windows adorned with floral and plant motifs, known as "tashjir" (gardening).
Tourism and Preservation
The palace has been designated as a historical monument and is a popular tourist destination, attracting both local and international visitors eager to admire Moroccan architectural art, particularly wood carving and plasterwork. The palace's initial construction was overseen by the royal chamberlain Musa ben Ahmed al-Bukhari, who built the large Riad and the northern courtyard. Work on this section ceased in 1886, and after his death, his son "Ba Hammad" continued the project, eventually assembling around 60 houses to create the grand palace, which stands as a masterpiece of Moroccan architectural art from the late 19th century.
Conclusion
The Bahia Palace is more than just an architectural marvel; it is a living testament to the splendor and intricacies of Moroccan history and artistry. Its exquisite craftsmanship, from the intricate wood carvings to the vibrant tilework, reflects the cultural richness of its era. Today, it stands as a serene oasis in Marrakech, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the grandeur of a bygone era. The palace not only captivates with its beauty but also with its story—a story of vision, artistry, and the enduring legacy of Moroccan heritage. Whether you are an enthusiast of history, art, or architecture, a visit to the Bahia Palace promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Moroccan elegance and sophistication.