Have you ever walked through a neighbourhood bursting with the echoes of a city’s past? Welcome to Semlalia, a district in Marrakech, Morocco. This vibrant neighbourhood, nestled near the bustling Gueliz district, is more than just a place of residence; it’s a living testament to Marrakech’s evolving cityscape.
Semlalia’s name itself carries a rich history, derived from the influential Zaouia d’Illigh, a Sufi brotherhood founded in the 17th century in the Souss region. This brotherhood was also known as the Zaouia Semlalia, after its founder, Abou Hassoun Semlali, and his Berber tribe, the Ida ou Semlal.
While Semlalia today is a largely residential area, it wasn’t always so. In the past, it housed several significant institutions, including the civil hospital, which is now known as the Ibn Tofail Hospital, as well as the European cemetery. These establishments were built within a former palm grove, which was later transformed into the vibrant district we see today.
During the 1960s, Semlalia began to develop as a residential neighbourhood after Morocco’s independence. In 1978, the neighbourhood saw a significant shift in its identity with the opening of the Faculty of Sciences of Semlalia, Marrakech’s first university institution. This new purpose attracted a student population, further reinforcing the educational focus of Semlalia.
Today, Semlalia is a fascinating mix of old and new, with its historic hotels alongside the modern university buildings. As you walk through the streets, you can feel the unique blend of tradition and modernity that paints a vibrant picture of Marrakech.