Jemaa El Fna

The direct translation of Jemaa el Fna is inauspicious- collection of the dead or the square of decapitated heads. Formerly, death penalties were carried out there. Later, in the 16th century it was decided to build a gargantuan mosque in this location and necessary expansions were made. In spite of the intentions the mosque was never built and the square became a favorite place for gathering for many. Today Jemaa El Fna square is the heart of Marrakech and it is listed in the UNESCO World Inheritance list. Even though different people might have different opinions about the activities that take place on the square, it is important to understand that not all of it is done for tourists, some of it is a cultural phenomenon that has developed over thousands of years. Just like in the past there were fortunetellers sitting under the shades, acrobats performing, healers pulling out teeth and selling their items and gnawas trying to get into trance, so it is also today. Passers-by can enjoy food and drinks, local music, stories by narrators, gedra dances or serpent performances.