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Expansive 16th-century palace ruins with stork nests and a vast sunken courtyard.
About this experience
The 'Palace of Wonder' was built in the late 16th century by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansur to celebrate his victory over the Portuguese. It was once one of the most magnificent palaces in the world, featuring 360 rooms, a central courtyard with a massive pool, and lavish decorations of gold, marble, and precious stones. Today, the grand ruins are a hauntingly beautiful site where storks nest on the high ramparts. The palace grounds host the Marrakech Folklore Festival annually. Inside the complex, you'll also find the small but fascinating Koutoubia Mosque minibar (containing artifacts from the original mosque) and underground corridors to explore [citation:3][citation:5].
Insider Tips
- Great for kids who love to climb and explore the ruins
- Watch for the enormous stork nests on the high walls
- Bring water and a hat—there's little shade
- Combine with Saadian Tombs (just a 5-minute walk away)
Best Time to Visit
Best experienced during: Morning, Late afternoon, Spring