The memories from the latest journeys are always more vivid and fresher than their predecessors. Drawing parallels from the programming realm; Last in first out.
Morocco is a fantastic country located in north-west Africa. The plethora of culture and colors offered by this country are as multi-varied as the ever changing landscapes one encounters here. I've split this post into 3 parts to cover the vast variety offered by this country.
Riads are a vital facet of Moorish architecture. They are actually traditional Moroccan houses with an interior garden or courtyard similar to a patio. The courtyard typically houses a fountain and mosaic work; originating from the city of Fes. Fes is home to tile and mosaic artisans and specializes in fountains, tables and tiles with complex geometric patterns. Orange trees seem to be omnipresent in Morocco and the gardens of Riads are no exception. Mosaic and tile work with beautiful calligraphy is very much a integral part of the interiors. Spending the night in trendy Riads is somewhat of a cultural experience and we (like countless others) were lured into it!
The terms Ksar and Kasbah are often used interchangably. These actually refer to a fortress or citadel in the medina or old city, with high walls. Some kasbahs were built around hill tops. One such particularly splendid spectacle is the kasbah Aït Ben Haddou on the quandom caravan trail from Marrakech into the Saharan Desert. Several movies were shot in and around this site, until it received the UNESCO Heritage status, following which the shooting was confined to the exteriors. Kasbah Telouet also on the caravan route and once home to the mighty El-Glaoui family is not so much of a tourist destination. Little is left to narrate of the splendors that this palace has seen.
More about other fantastic landscapes shall fill the next part of this split post.
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