The city of Ouarzazate definitely deserves its nickname as the 'City of Cinema'. However, Marrakech has nothing to envy from the Gateway to the South as many filmmakers have fallen for its charms and the variety of its settings. Let's explore some masterpieces made in Marrakech. Photo: DR
The man who knew too much is a crime film by British director Alfred Hitchcock. Unlike the first version, this remake is in color, which is why the city of Marrakech was chosen, known for its rich hues. Mixing suspense, intrigue, and chase scenes, the movie includes numerous sequences shot in the medina, at Bab Doukkala, and especially in the middle of Jemaa el Fna square. One of the legendary scenes of this masterpiece is undoubtedly the song 'Que sera, sera', performed by the stunning Doris Day in one of the suites at the La Mamounia palace. This song went on to win an Oscar for Best Song.
Written and directed by Stephen Sommers, The mummy is a fantasy adventure film recounting the fictional story of a cursed Egyptian priest, resurrected by archaeologists during the 1920s. Lead actors Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz teamed up in Marrakech instead of Cairo due to the tense political climate in Egypt. Consequently, the scenes representing the Egyptian desert were filmed in the Moroccan Sahara, near the city of Erfoud.
Directed by Oliver Stone, known for the famous musical documentary The Doors, Alexander is a biopic tracing the life of the Macedonian king, one of antiquity's most famous figures. Filmed in Morocco and Thailand for the outdoor scenes, this epic features an impressive cast including Anthony Hopkins, Colin Farrell, Angelina Jolie, Val Kilmer, and Jared Leto. For the shoot in Marrakech, two large warehouses in the industrial area were converted into workshops for making props: furniture, pottery, statues, musical instruments, fabrics, lamps, decorative items, etc.
Directed by Mike Newell, 'Prince of Persia: The sands of time' is a film adaptation of the successful video game of the same name. This action film explores the adventures of Prince Dastan, played by American actor Jake Gyllenhaal. The production team found Marrakech an ideal location with geographical diversity meeting the film's needs. Thus, filming began in 2008 in a small village nestled in the Oukaïmeden mountains, requiring the work of 20 construction workers to build a road making this remote village accessible. The scenes depicting the Iranian valley, Alamut, were spread over several areas around the ochre city, notably Tamesloht and the Agafay desert.
Italian
Italian cuisine, much like its 'mamma', is generous and welcoming! Brimming with Mediterranean flavors and sunshine, this traditional cuisine inspires many chefs and delights both the young and the old. From antipasti, pastas, pizzas, and risottos, to salads, cheeses, cold cuts, tiramisu, and panna cotta, here is our selection of places to savor all these traditional dishes. Photo by Yoav Aziz
Couscous
Couscous, a dish that needs no introduction, is a Friday lunchtime staple. Whether with chicken, beef, or vegetarian, there's something for every taste and budget! Our editorial team reveals its 5 favorite spots to savor a delicious couscous in Marrakech. Photo: La Grande Table Marocaine
Exhibition
Mahi Binebine's exhibition "Silent Elevations" has been extended until May 20 at the Mandarin Oriental. This event is a must-see for lovers of contemporary Moroccan art and those who want to explore a unique blend of sculpture and painting.
RAMADAN
Ramadan is a time for shared moments, and Marrakech offers many exceptional places to break the fast with family or friends. Here is a selection of establishments where you can enjoy a memorable ftour in Marrakech during the holy month.
Getaway
Looking to escape your daily routine, soak up nature, see the sea and feel the sea spray, hike in the mountains and breathe in the fresh air, or simply discover a different atmosphere... The areas around Marrakesh are incredibly diverse! While staying in Morocco, Made in Marrakesh suggests ten getaways accessible by car or plane, thanks to new flight routes, all within three hours. So, what are you up to this weekend? Photo: Samuel C
gastronomy
Marrakech never fails to amaze visitors with its culture, enchanting landscapes, and most notably, its world-renowned culinary scene. If you are a fan of fine dining, the city boasts some of the biggest names in international cuisine. Let's dive into the world of these renowned chefs who delight guests' taste buds at select establishments in the city. Photo: L'Ô à la bouche