Protectorate, Independence & Modernity

The French Protectorate (1912–1956)

In 1912, Morocco became a French Protectorate. Marshal Lyautey had the wisdom not to demolish the historic medinas but to build new cities (Villes Nouvelles) alongside them — hence, the Medina and Gueliz coexist in Marrakech. The French built roads, railways, and hotels (La Mamounia!) and made Marrakech the winter quarters of the Parisian elite: Churchill painted here, Edith Piaf sang here, and Saint Laurent fell in love here.

Independence (1956)

On March 2, 1956, Morocco gained independence under King Mohammed V. The Alawite monarchy survived and continues to rule to this day — since 1999 under King Mohammed VI., who is cautiously advancing modernization.

Marrakech Today

The city has developed into an international tourism metropolis: 12 million visitors per year, a booming riad scene, international film festivals, and a growing art scene. The earthquake of September 8, 2023 (magnitude 6.8) struck the Medina and destroyed historic buildings and villages in the Atlas — reconstruction is underway. Marrakech itself recovered remarkably quickly, but the mountain villages will need years.