botanical gardens. They were subsequently owned by Y St Laurent so didn’t have the same volume of visitors as now. This I think is why it is all in such spectacular condition. There are already signs of ‘wear’ which are evident in other Tourist hotspots around. Anyway , the light was not conducive to my poor photography techniques so I hope you get the flavour.
We then took a petit taxi to the Menara Gardens this is more a public open space. To be enjoyed by Moroccans at the weekend for picnics etc. A wide Boulevard led to the entrance, where there were a few token Camels available for rides. We did have to pay entrance to see the poolside minzah. The gardens are mostly laid to olive trees and a few roses.
Taxi to Bahia (Brilliant) Palace. Most outstanding were the cedar wood painted ceilings, zellij fireplaces, stucco friezes and stained glass windows. There were plenty of rooms not all restored and others for use on Royal visits not open to the public. It reminded me of the Royal Palace in Seville probably due to the historical connection.
Just round the corner (figuratively speaking) was the smaller Dar Si Said a smaller version of the Bahia Palace. This has the Moroccan Museum of Arts on the second floor so we spent some time perusing the artefacts. Once again the woodwork was ‘IMPRESSIVE’ my pictures don’t do it justice. No photography allowed here - a shame since it has the oldest relic in Morocco –a large rectangular basin dating from 1005. Amazing that it has survived all the wars and sackings over the years ! It ought to have better publicity and position.
Quite tired out we had tea above the Square and thought about the missed lunch. Decided to eat early at Jemaa square.
Managed to catch Hassan when we got back and arranged to do the Ourika Valley tomorrow.
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