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Morocco is a jewel in the North African continent, a land of stunning contrasts and experiences. With its mix of African and Arabic cultures it is testimony to its great and colourful past and the living consequence of the early spread westwards of Islam and the Arab conquest.

Fortified Marrakech, once the capital city of Morocco under the Saadian dynasty of the 16th and 17th Centuries and preceding Berber dynasties, was established as long ago as the 11th Century and much of its historical fabric remains today, including the beautiful Koutoubia Mosque and the ochre city walls. It is appropriately designated as a World Heritage Site. Within the walled city known as the Medina there are various quarters, all displaying their own particular character, but the Place Jemaa El Fna remains the City's centerpiece and touristic focal point. Situated around the Place are the many souks in which can be found a wonderful array of Moroccan goods.

Evenings at the Place are rewarded by a busy and frenetic atmosphere combining visual and aural spectacle with the gorgeous aroma of a vast array of traditional foods cooked to order on the abundant stalls situated in its centre. All around, traditional Berber story- tellers vie for attention among the snake charmers, dancers and Berber performers whose Senegalese influenced music, played on traditional instruments, both entrances and enthralls.

A short walk south from the Place and the surrounding souks leads through the Mellah (the ancient Jewish quarter with its characteristic "outward looking" houses) to the Royal Kasbah, the fortified area within the Medina with its own distinctive atmosphere and appearance, home to the two Royal Palaces and the famous tombs of the Saadian Dynasty. Here, in its heart, can be found Riad Shemsi (literally interpreted as "my sun").

a riad of exceptional elegance