Marrakech, whose original name in Berber is Tamurt n Akkuc, which means "Land of God", is one of most important cities in Morocco. Located 460 meters above sea level at the foot of the Atlas mountains, it has a population of over 1.5 million inhabitants.
Marrakech today is one of the most visited city's in Morocco due to the immense tourist interest it generates. Its monuments act as a historical heritage to humanity, such as the well known and famous Square known as Plaza Djemaa el Fna Souk (the largest and most crowded in Africa) or by its popular market (souk) the largest in Morocco, as well as the big number of riads that it has.
It is, together with Rabat, Meknes and Fez, one of the four imperial cities of Morocco. Founded in 1062 by Ibn Tasfin (considered to be Morroco´s father), he established the Almoravids Dynasty in Marrakech which at that time was considered the very capital of the Islamic Empire.
After a very violent & conflict ridden history during which time Portuguese, Spanish and French communities all lived in Morocco, it finally achieved freedom and in 1956 Morocco became independent, after which Marrakech stopped being the central city and Rabat became the capital.
Nowadays Marrakech's income is mainly from tourism and agriculture (exporting mostly to Western countries). It is also a centre of transportation of minerals extracted from the Atlas mountains.
Marrakech is also known as the 'Red City' due to the distinct colour of it's many buildings, especially prevalent in the medina.
These days Marrakech has the enviable title of being the most international city of Morocco.