Jardin d'Agdal

The oldest royal gardens in Marrakech, walled and guarded and open only sporadically. The Agdal dates to the 12th century — 400 hectares of orchards and olive groves fed by ancient irrigation channels from the Atlas. When the King is not in residence (and when guards decide to open the gates), you can walk the avenues between orange trees and past the great basin where sultans once sailed pleasure boats. The scale is agricultural, not ornamental — this was production as much as pleasure. The gardens lie south of the Royal Palace, separate from the tourist medina. Access is unpredictable; Friday and Sunday afternoons are most likely. When open, the Agdal offers something rare: royal Marrakech without renovation, without restoration, simply old and still functioning. Best time: Friday/Sunday afternoon (check if open) Allow: 1.5-2 hours (if open) Combine with: Menara Gardens