Le Jardin Secret, Islamic palace garden in Medina quarter, Marrakesh, Morocco
Le Jardin Secret is a palace garden in the Medina quarter of Marrakesh with two courtyards, fountains, water channels, palms, citrus trees, and ornamental plants arranged in geometric patterns. The site combines an exotic garden area with an Islamic garden section, allowing visitors to observe the traditional water system from elevated walkways.
The site dates to the Saadian dynasty in the 16th century and was redesigned in the mid-19th century by a powerful governor from the Atlas Mountains. This renovation significantly shaped the garden's appearance as it stands today.
The garden reflects Islamic design principles where water, plants, and architecture work together to create a balanced space. You can see how the pavilions and fountains are arranged to provide shade and cool air throughout the day.
The garden is easy to walk through on foot, and the elevated paths make it simple to explore the different areas without disturbing the plants. It helps to wear comfortable shoes since you will be moving around for some time.
The garden's irrigation system uses underground channels connected to an ancient water network still functioning today, called a khettara. This traditional system shows how water was managed efficiently in this dry region for centuries.
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