The Mellah, Marrakech's former Jewish quarter, holds two little-touristed markets: the jewellers' souk, where silver and gold are worked and sold, and the covered spice market, used mostly by local residents. Prices tend to be calmer than around Jemaa el-Fna and sellers less insistent. Entry is free; allow one to two hours together with the rest of the quarter (see our page on the Mellah of Marrakech).
Highlights
The jewellers' souk
Tiny shops line up silver bracelets, fibulae, rings and pendants, sometimes gold. According to the local tourist office, auctions take place in the late afternoon (around 4 pm); check on the spot. Ask for the weight and the purity of the metal, and compare three shops before buying.
The Mellah spice market
Piles of cumin, paprika, turmeric, saffron, ras el-hanout and dried fruit, sold by weight to a local clientele. Buy saffron and spice blends in small quantities; smell and taste before paying. For a more touristy market, see the Spice Square.
Practical info
Tips
- Prices are not displayed and are negotiated calmly. For silver jewellery, ask to see the hallmark and do not pay "solid silver" prices for plated metal; if you doubt a stone is genuine, walk away. Keep cash in small notes. The Mellah is a residential quarter: ask before photographing people. Politely decline passers-by offering to guide you; an offline map is enough. For more shopping ideas, see what to bring back from Marrakech and the souks of Marrakech.
How to get there
Mellah, south-east of the medina, near Place des Ferblantiers and the El Badi Palace. On foot from Jemaa el-Fna: about 15 minutes along Rue Riad Zitoun el-Jdid. By petit taxi: ask for "place des Ferblantiers" or "Mellah".
Opening hours
Nearby
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