Marrakech Biennale 2016: Places

The Biennale mainly spans across five historical locations in the medina of Marrakech.

Palais El Badii

Badi Palace is a ruined palace in Marrakech, Morocco. Commissioned by the Arab Saadien Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur, somewhat after its accession in 1578, its construction was funded by a large ransom paid by the Portuguese after the Battle of the Three Kings. There are several large pavilions on the site, which are believed to have been used as summer homes. The largest on the site is known in Arabic el Koubba Khamsiniya, which translates to “The Pavilion Fifty,” named after its area is about 50 cubits or that it once contained 50 columns.

Palais El Bahia 

The Bahia Palace is located in the medina of Marrakech along the northern edge of the district Mellah or Jewish quarter. Although the exact dates of the construction of the palace are unknown, the building was in use between 1859 and 1873 and was completed by 1900. The palace is quite large and covers nearly eight hectares in the project consist of a series of walled gardens, pavilions, and buildings of the court at different scales.

Musée Dar Si Saïd

A monument to Moroccan mâalems (master artisans), the home of Bou Ahmed’s brother Si Said is a showcase of regional craftsmanship. It now houses the Museum of Moroccan Arts.

Pavillon de la Menara

The name menara derives from the pavillon with its small green pyramid roof (menzeh). The pavilion was built during the 16th century Saadi dynasty and renovated in 1869 by sultan Abderrahmane of Morocco, who used to stay there in summertime.

Citernes de la Koutoubia

The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakesh located in the southwest medina quarter.  The artists will be located in the plaza adjacent to the mosque and the cisterns which are two underground water tunnels that were used for irrigation. These tunnels have been rehabilitated and will feature artists works in them especially in the format of film.

Khalid Art Gallery

Khalid Art Gallery is becoming an institution in Marrakech. Located on Dar el Basha in a traditional Riad, the Art Gallery (perhaps more accurately defined as a shop) is bursting with some of the most sought after Moroccan antiques and exquisite artisanal products that Marrakech has to offer.