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Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha

"Le Jardin Secret" - an Oasis in Marrakech

Updated: Oct 17, 2023


Photo © Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha - Pierre Giraud Le Jardin Secret Marrakech Morocco

Photo © Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha


“Le Jardin Secret” of Marrakesh is a haven of coolness nestled in the heart of the Medina, a soothing garden in the midst of the sensory chaos of the Medina of Marrakesh.


History:

The origins of “Le Jardin Secret” date back to the second half of the 16th century, when the Saadian Sultan Moulay 'Abd-Allah undertook the urbanization of the Mouassine district. It was destroyed at the end of the 17th century. Towards the middle of the 19th century, the caïd al-Hajj 'Abd-Allah U-Bihi took possession of the land on which a new palace was built, the layout of which respected that of the Saadian complex. Marrakesh underwent great development during this period, which favoured the construction of gardens and rich residences. This old palace has belonged to many sultans and political figures over the years.


Unfortunately, it fell into ruin after the death of its last owner due to lack of maintenance. In 2008, the idea of restoring “Le Jardin Secret” emerged and it was opened to the public in 2016.


Copyright Samy Slow - Unsplash - Le Jardin Secret marrakech

However, thanks to these conservation and restoration efforts, “Le Jardin Secret” has been restored to its original splendour. The site covers 4,000 square metres and includes a 17-metre high tower and two beautiful gardens. The first is modelled on the Islamic garden, while the second is an exotic garden with plants from all five

Photo © Samy Slow Unsplash

continents.


“Le Jardin Secret” is also supplied with water through a khettara, an underground gallery built in the 11th century. This gallery was used to carry water to the city's mosques, hammams and fountains. Indeed, Marrakesh was known as a garden city from medieval times until the early 20th century. With nicknames such as "oasis in the desert", "rose among the palms" and "Al Bahja", the city was considered the place for happy, open-air living.


copyright Pierre Giraud - Riad Dar Chacha - Le Jardin Secret

Visit “Le Jardin Secret” of Marrakesh to discover the fascinating history of this palace and immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of the surrounding gardens.



Emblematic place :

Discover the magic of Marrakesh's “Le Jardin Secret”, a must-see destination in the heart of the city. Although the inaugural palace was built over four centuries ago, it has been carefully

Photo © Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha


restored to its former glory, thanks to the combined efforts of many architects and craftsmen. Experts have created two magnificent gardens to enhance the property: the exotic garden with a multitude of plants from all over the world, such as Madagascar and South America, and the Islamic garden, a sacred place with strict geometric rules where Muslim order dominates the wilderness.


Photo © Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha - Pierre Giraud Le Jardin Secret Marrakech Morocco

Take in the breathtaking views of the Medina and surrounding area from “Le Jardin Secret” tower, the tallest in Marrakesh, towering above some of the city's minarets. Listen to the rustle of water flowing all around, culminating in a ballet of enchanting fountains. Discover the restaurants overlooking the gardens, offering delicious food and shops selling souvenirs, paintings and a variety of gift items. You can also explore reproductions of original photographs exclusive to the hotel.

End your visit by relaxing in the Riad's café, enjoying a delicious Moroccan mint tea, homemade cakes or fresh fruit and


Photo © Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha

vegetable smoothies. All in all, this historic place offers many activities to explore and discover, in addition to the beauty of the gardens. Don't miss this unique experience that will transport you to another world.


Practical information :


Photo © Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha - Pierre Giraud - Le Jardin Secret Marrakech Morocco

Photo © Pierre @ Riad Dar Chacha


Don't miss your chance to visit “Le Jardin Secret” all year round! Discover the unique gardens from February to October, with opening hours from 9.30am to 6.30pm, and enjoy the warmer weather by walking until 7.30pm from March to September. Please note that opening times may vary during Ramadan.


Entrance fees to the gardens are affordable, with a rate of 80 dirhams for adults and a reduced rate for young people aged 7 to 24 and Moroccan citizens. For an even more spectacular experience, you can visit the garden tower for an additional 40 dirhams (or 30 dirhams for reduced rates).


Book a group tour if you are travelling with a large group to Marrakesh. For only 60 dirhams per person (for a group of at least 10 people), you can discover together the wonders of “Le Jardin Secret” .


Don't wait any longer, come and discover the history and the beauty of this unique place, open all year round for your greatest pleasure.


📍 where to find le Jardin Secret : click here for location


Our riad :

Discover the history and antiquities of North Africa by visiting the historic city of Marrakesh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the vibrant and colourful culture of the Medina, the city's cultural centre, filled with traditional Riads, historic buildings and landmarks such as Jamaa El Fna Square, the Badii Palace, the Bahia Palace, the Saadian Tombs and the Ben Youssef Medersa.

For those who prefer peace and quiet, Riad Dar Chacha is the perfect solution for an authentic and exotic experience in Marrakesh. Our riad, located in the heart of the old city, offers the best services for your stay, with a staff dedicated to the well-being of its guests. You will be able to relax in our 150 m2 garden-terrace, perfect to recharge your batteries after a day of exploring the city.

Marrakech Riad Dar Chacha

Riad Dar Chacha is ideally located for exploring the historical sites of the Medina. For more information about our unique riad, please contact us


Book now for an unforgettable experience in Marrakesh !








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