Badi Palace
Attraction
4.4 (6923 reviews)
Remains of a 16th-century palace whose garden walls & ornamental orange orchard still stand.
Ksibat Nhass, Marrakech 40000, Morocco
Did You Know?
Meaning of 'Badi'
The name 'Badi' (or 'El Badi') translates to 'The Incomparable' or 'The Marvelous', reflecting its original grandeur and the ambition of its builder, Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur.
Year of Construction Start
Construction of the Badi Palace began in 1578 under the Saadian Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur, taking approximately 15 years to complete and financed by the ransom paid by the Portuguese after the Battle of the Three Kings.
Global Materials
The palace was built using incredibly lavish materials sourced from around the world, including Italian marble, Irish granite, Indian onyx, and Sudanese gold, showcasing the sultan's immense wealth and power.
Palace's Demise
Less than a century after its completion, the palace was systematically stripped of its valuable materials by Sultan Moulay Ismail to build his own grand palace in Meknes, leaving it in its current ruined state.
Highlights from Reviews
• Rich History
The palace offers a deep dive into Marrakech's past, showcasing the grandeur and power of former dynasties.
• Impressive Architecture
Despite being largely in ruins, the scale, courtyards, and remaining architectural elements are striking and evocative.
• Peaceful Ambiance
The vast open spaces and tranquil environment provide a welcome escape from the bustling city.
• Stork Nests
The presence of numerous storks nesting on the palace walls adds a unique and charming natural element to the visit.
• Photo Opportunities
The beautiful ruins and often uncrowded spaces allow for excellent photography, especially in the morning.