A Word a Week Challenge – Jmaa el Fna Square

This week’s Word a Week challenge asks participants to contribute images that capture the word, “Square”.

For once, this post is not based in Thailand but in Marrakech, Morroco.

I have been to Morroco three times over the past few years and I plan to visit again.  I absolutely adore the place, the people, the food, the architecture, the music…

My entry to this weeks challenge takes us on a journey through Morroco’s most famous square – Jmma el Fna, which sits amidst a rabbits warren of interconnecting lanes that open up to become souks selling absolutely anything imaginable.

Jmaa el Fna roughly translates to Mosque of Death but it couldnt be more alive.

Snake charmers, fruit sellers, ironmongers, butchers, spice stalls, magicians, water sellers, dancing boys, all line the square and wander around the ever increasing crowd.  As the sun sets, the place seems to take on a new dimension with the strong, earthy smell of the spices as the street food stalls ignite their fires, spicy smoke filling the air, illuminated by the dull orange light of the market place.  The sound of snake charming flutes fill the air, of voices inticing you in to look at their wares, the dull beat of a drum setting the beat for a traditional dance.

Take a look for yourself…

Walking through one of the souk walkways that lead to the square.

At every corner a different trade and another obstacle.

The minaret of the mosque stands proudly as the sun sets.

A market seller tries to intice some customers.

A group of men gambling.

One of the many lanes that leads from the square.

Spicy smoke fills the air around the food stalls.

The view between two food stalls.

Some local men enjoy some street food.

I hope you enjoyed these images and a little break from the Thailand posts.  Wow, I really want to go back there soon!