How long does it take to walk through the Gueliz neighborhood?

A thorough walk through the main landmarks of Gueliz typically takes between 60 to 90 minutes. The distance is roughly 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) on mostly flat, paved streets.

Is Gueliz worth visiting compared to the Medina?

Yes, Gueliz is absolutely worth visiting for its contrast to the ancient city. It offers a glimpse into 20th-century history, modern Moroccan art, and a more relaxed, cosmopolitan atmosphere with wide boulevards and cafes.

Can I see Art Deco architecture in Marrakech?

Gueliz is the primary district for Art Deco in Marrakech. Key examples include the Cinéma Colisée and various apartment blocks along Boulevard Mohamed V that feature the geometric lines and stylized motifs of the 1930s-1950s.

What is the best time of day for a Gueliz walking route?

Late afternoon is ideal as the heat subsides and the 'Ville Nouvelle' comes to life. The golden hour light also beautifully highlights the ochre and pastel tones of the Art Deco buildings.

Is the Gueliz walk accessible for strollers?

Yes, this is one of the most accessible areas of Marrakech for strollers and wheelchairs. The sidewalks are wide and paved, though you should still watch for uneven pavement or missing curb ramps.

Are there entrance fees for the stops on this walk?

Most stops like the market and the church (if open) are free to view. Musée Macma requires a small entrance fee (typically around 50-70 MAD), and the cinema requires a ticket only if you are staying for a film.

Where can I find a good cafe during the walk?

The Grand Café de la Poste is the most historic choice for a break. For a more modern vibe, the streets surrounding the Marche Couvert are packed with trendy local coffee shops and patisseries.

French Chic and Art Deco: The Gueliz Walk | Walking Tour

1 hr 20 min

Duration

6

Stops

Easy

Difficulty

About This Tour

Step away from the labyrinthine alleys of the Medina and enter the 'Ville Nouvelle,' where the red city embraces a sophisticated French flair. This self-guided walk through the Gueliz neighborhood reveals a different side of Marrakech, one defined by wide boulevards, mid-century elegance, and stunning Art Deco facades. Established during the French Protectorate in the early 20th century, Gueliz was designed to be a modern European-style hub, and today it remains the heart of the city’s contemporary art, fashion, and culinary scenes. On this walking route, you will discover how French urban planning merged with Moroccan aesthetics to create a unique architectural heritage. Your exploration begins at the Church of the Holy Martyrs, a symbol of the neighborhood's multicultural roots. From there, you will stroll toward the bustling Place du 16 Novembre, the literal and figurative center of modern Marrakech. As you navigate the grid-like streets, you will encounter landmarks like the Grand Café de la Poste, an iconic establishment that feels like a film set from the 1920s, and the Marche Couvert Central, where the scents of fresh flowers and spices fill the air. The journey continues through the lens of creativity at Musée Macma and concludes at the majestic Cinéma Colisée, a masterpiece of Art Deco design. This neighborhood stroll offers a refreshing contrast to the ancient souks, providing a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere for those interested in history and design. Whether you are a fan of photography or simply looking to experience a local favorite, this walking tour Marrakech provides the perfect itinerary for an afternoon of discovery. It is an essential route for anyone wanting to understand the full evolution of this complex city beyond its medieval walls.

Highlights

The striking modernist architecture of the Church of the Holy Martyrs
The colonial-era elegance of the Grand Café de la Poste
Local life and fresh aromas at the Marche Couvert Central
Contemporary Moroccan art and photography at Musée Macma
The iconic 1950s Art Deco facade of the Cinéma Colisée

Route Map

Numbers indicate the order of stops on the tour

Tour Stops (6)

1

Chiesa Madre dei Santi Martiri (Church of the Holy Martyrs)

Built in 1928, this Catholic church stands as a testament to the French Protectorate era in Marrakech. Its minimalist, almost austere facade is a departure from the ornate Islamic architecture found in the Medina. Dedicated to the Franciscan martyrs executed in Marrakech in the 13th century, the building serves as a quiet sanctuary amid the city's growth. Notice the clean lines and the bell tower that marks the entrance to Gueliz. It represents the early 20th-century European desire to establish a familiar cultural footprint in North Africa while respecting the surrounding landscape. It remains an active place of worship for the city's international community.

2

Place du 16 Novembre

This wide, circular plaza is the beating heart of the Ville Nouvelle. Named to commemorate the return of Sultan Mohammed V from exile in 1955, it serves as the junction between the historic past and the modern future. From here, the city's main arteries fan out like a star. Take a moment to observe the Post Office (Grande Poste) building, a prime example of the 'Mauresque' style—a blend of French architectural techniques and traditional Moroccan decorative elements like zellij tilework and carved plaster. It is a popular meeting spot for locals and a perfect place to orient yourself in the grid-like layout of Gueliz.

3

Grand Café de la Poste

Stepping toward the Grand Café de la Poste feels like stepping back into the 1920s. Originally built as a postal relay station and later converted into a hotel and cafe, it has hosted famous figures and travelers for nearly a century. The interior is a masterclass in colonial chic, featuring dark wood, wicker chairs, and slowly rotating ceiling fans. Even if you don't stop for a coffee, admire the veranda and the lush greenery that surrounds the entrance. It perfectly captures the 'French Chic' theme of this walk, serving as a reminder of the era when Gueliz was the playground of the European elite.

4

Marche Couvert Central

The Central Market of Gueliz is a feast for the senses and a window into local daily life. Unlike the chaotic souks of the Medina, this covered market is organized with a European flair. Inside, you will find stalls overflowing with vibrant flowers, fresh Atlantic seafood, artisanal cheeses, and mounds of olives. The architecture of the market itself, with its vaulted ceilings and ventilation, was designed to keep the produce cool in the Moroccan heat. It is a fantastic place to observe the local 'Guelliziens' going about their day and to appreciate the high-quality ingredients that fuel the city's renowned culinary scene.

5

Musée Macma (Musée d'Art et de Culture de Marrakech)

This private museum is a hidden gem dedicated to the cultural history of Marrakech and Morocco. Its collection often features vintage photography, orientalist paintings, and traditional jewelry, offering a visual narrative of how the city has been perceived by both locals and visitors over the decades. The building itself is a modern space that highlights the neighborhood's evolution into an arts district. By exploring the exhibits, you gain a deeper understanding of the artistic soul of the city, moving beyond the stereotypes to see the authentic craftsmanship and diverse heritage that define modern Morocco.

6

Cinéma Colisée

Your walk concludes at the Cinéma Colisée, an architectural icon of Marrakech. Designed by the architect Georges Peynet and opened in 1953, it is one of the finest examples of late Art Deco and Modernist design in the city. The sweeping curves of its facade and the stylized typography of its signage are instantly recognizable. For decades, it has been the premier venue for film in Marrakech, including major screenings during the International Film Festival. It stands as a symbol of the cosmopolitan, forward-looking spirit of Gueliz, where art and public life intersect under the Moroccan sun.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best way to explore Gueliz is a self-guided walk focusing on its Art Deco architecture and French heritage. This route covers iconic spots like the Grand Café de la Poste and Cinéma Colisée in about 90 minutes.