Discovering Gueliz
Gueliz (Ville Nouvelle) was established during the French Protectorate period (1912–1956) as a European new town — a contrast to the Medina: wide boulevards, Art Deco buildings, sidewalk cafés, and boutiques. Here, Marrakech almost feels European — and that is sometimes welcome after the chaos of the souks.
What to do in Gueliz?
- Avenue Mohammed V: The main axis of Gueliz — banks, shops, cafés, and the most beautiful Art Deco facades in the city. Perfect for an afternoon stroll.
- Café Culture: In Gueliz, coffee is enjoyed on European-style terraces — Café du Livre (with bookstore), Grand Café de la Poste (colonial flair), and Pâtisserie Al Jawda (the best Moroccan sweets in the city).
- Galleries & Art: MACMA (Musée d'Art et de Culture de Marrakech), Galerie 127 (photography), David Bloch Gallery — Marrakech's art scene is growing and Gueliz is its center.
- Shopping (with fixed prices!): For those tired of haggling: Gueliz offers boutiques and concept stores with fixed prices. 33 Rue Majorelle, Lalla (fashion), and Atelier Moro (ceramics) offer high-quality Moroccan design.
