Typically, riads are constructed where old mansions or palaces once stood. In reality, these old palaces have undergone renovations to become riads. This is the reason that every riad you see has kept a historical feel in both its interior design and outside architecture.
There are high walls and roof terraces in this building, and the balconies of the riad overlook this garden. A riad in Marrakech might occasionally be a modest building with only four to six rooms. However, some may be enormous, complete with a rooftop patio and many rooms.
Without staying in a riad, you won’t be able to experience Marrakech’s authentic way of life. You may notice numerous traditional elements of the services that are offered in these riads in addition to the historical decorations here.
Find the best riad to stay in if you want to experience real Moroccan culture.
A Riad’s Architectural Design
A riad will typically feature two to three rooms on the ground floor that open to the garden. These rooms typically have doors or curtains and are long and narrow in design. However, one of these spaces might be devoid of any obstructions and feature a sizable area where guests can unwind.
More of these rooms, which are ornamented with lovely curtains and doors, are located on the upper levels of the riad. Additionally, some of these rooms include interior windows that are adorned with shutters and decorative metalwork. The upper levels’ rooms all have doors that open to corresponding interior balconies. Additionally, the rooms have extremely high ceilings, which gives them a feeling of spaciousness.
The riad’s entrance is huge and lavishly adorned. While some of these doors may have more straightforward designs, all of them will have a traditional appearance. You will pass through a lengthy hallway after entering through the door before arriving at the central courtyard or garden.
The windows at the top level are high rise and very small, and none of the rooms on the bottom level have any. Beautiful wall paintings adorn the interiors of the riads, and some of them even have ornate plasters or tiles.
Open Top
The majority of riads you’ll come across will have an open roof, letting in fresh air, sunlight, and even rain. A wide variety of birds can also be seen entering the riad and making it their home. There are some pitched roofs that prevent standing water from gathering in the region.
Even tall trees that grow from the ground up and reach the ceiling can be seen in some riads. Visitors can enjoy the well-kept trees that are a delight to behold. Despite the opening, there is no risk to the tourists’ safety because the riads are heavily fortified.
Kitchen and restrooms
Typically, the riad’s kitchen and bathrooms are found on the ground floor. They are concealed from the central courtyard and the main corridor. A riad’s bathrooms typically contain squat-style sitting. Both inside and outside of the bathroom are possible locations for the sinks.
While most modern riads now have showers, back in the day, residents had to take care of their bathing needs by going to the neighborhood hammam. Large chimneys in the kitchens are used to exhaust heat and smoke from cooking so that the rest of the home is not affected.
Where In Marrakech Can You Find A Riad?
Morocco is home to a large number of riads. However, Marrakech’s Old Medina is where you’ll find the most authentic riads. In fact, some of the greatest and most desirable riads are within a 10-minute walk from Jemma el Fna. Finding a riad is fascinating because, even when you are directly in front of one, you might not be able to tell it apart.
This generally happens since there are no signs or directions that will take you to a riad. They are regarded as intimate and private locations and are frequently concealed. The riad’s exterior will resemble a plain mansion without any ornate ornamentation. It is an entirely different world once you step inside a riad.
To discover your riad, you might need to navigate a winding stone-paved alleyway and arrive at a remote location far from Morocco’s bustling streets. Establishing a meeting place is advised if this is your first trip. There is a potential that you won’t be able to find a riad if you attempt to locate one on your own.
Most of the time, if you arrive at your location at night, it is best to avoid traveling alone. You’ll either require a map or the right direction. You might get lost if you don’t. Therefore, scheduling a pick up from a certain location is the best course of action.
When you arrive to Marrakech, you will discover that the region is home to hundreds of riads. Even if you haven’t booked reservations in advance, you can find the ideal riad with our agency.
