Djemma el Fna

Fast Facts

Location: In Marrakech in West Morocco
Attraction type: Market square
Significance: A virtual 24 hour market place
Best time to visit: Throughout the year
How to Reach: By road
Nearest Airport: Marrakech Menara Airport

Djemma el Fna in Marrakech is perhaps the most active city square, if not in the world but definitely in Africa. It is very difficult to find another market square as lively and as colorful as Djemma el Fna in Morocco. Musicians, dancers, story tellers, soothsayers, snake charmers, jugglers, vendors, and traders keep this square alive round the clock. There is never a moment when this place becomes monotonous. Even in this ever busy location there are some cafes with tranquil ambiance.

The sight, sound and exuberance of Marrakech Djemma el Fna are intoxicating and inescapable. You would be dumbfounded by the vibrant environment of this market square. In the morning you would notice snake charmers, jugglers, traders, fruit juice sellers, and snack kiosks. Sellers and buyers are charmed by these jugglers, and snake charmers. Fruit juice sellers make brisk business and the snack stalls remain busy throughout selling their mouth watering items. The continuous hollering of the sellers contributes to the din of the market place. You would also notice bards singing soulful tunes surrounded by an appreciative crowd.

As the day progresses into evening the setting of the Djemma el Fna market square gradually changes. The snake charmers and fruit juice sellers disappear and in their place magicians, story tellers, dancers, singers, and peddlers appear. Elaborate eateries take the place of the snack kiosks. Dancers in colorful costume would entertain you with their buoyant performances. You would notice gatherings of enthusiastic listeners around storytellers. The food served from the eateries is all freshly prepared and delectable. Have food in the crowded stalls as they are supposed to be more exotic. In case you need some peace you could relax in the numerous cafes surrounding Djemma el Fna.

Hotels in Djemma el Fna

For staying near Djemma el Fna you should put up in an accommodation in Medina. There are certain remarkable private homes or ‘riads’ close to Djemma el Fna for putting up. Riad Kniza, Riad Amirat al Jamal, and Riad Byati are among these. For hotel accommodation you might choose among Dar Vedra, Dar Silsila, and Hotel Sherazade.