Located near the historic Bab Doukkala square, the Almoravid Gardens have taken on a new lease of life since the former bus station was moved to Al Azzouzia. More open than before, the space once again gives residents a place to gather and enjoy the shade of the trees.
“It’s a beautiful gift to the city of Marrakech. The place is finally starting to look like something,” said one resident interviewed on site. Several locals said the trees had previously grown in a disorderly manner, creating isolated areas that could attract people engaging in inappropriate behavior.
“There used to be homeless people and others who came here to drink alcohol. Today, the garden has a completely different look,” he added. The reorganization of the site has opened up views and made the space more welcoming.
The old trees have been preserved, much to the residents’ satisfaction. “What I really liked is that they kept these trees, which are part of the garden’s history,” said another local resident. Beyond their historical value, the trees help purify the air and attract birds and insects, making them, in residents’ eyes, a heritage asset that should be protected, including during future redevelopment work.
The relocation of the bus station has also changed how the garden is used. Freed from transport-related activity, the space can now return to its role as a place for relaxation. “Since the Bab Doukkala bus station was moved, we now have a breathing space here for residents,” the resident said.
The presence of women sitting under the trees is one sign of this change. “They’re here peacefully, without being disturbed. It’s positive to see that the space has become more open and accessible to everyone,” the resident added. According to those interviewed, the change shows the importance of designing public gardens as shared spaces where everyone can feel welcome, regardless of age or circumstances.
However, residents stress that rehabilitation alone will not guarantee the long-term preservation of the transformation. Visitors are urged to respect the site, avoid littering, and take care of the trees and facilities.
For local residents, the redevelopment will not be enough without a basic sense of civic responsibility, whether when it comes to keeping the area clean or respecting the plantings and facilities. They hope the garden will remain, over the long term, a pleasant, accessible space open to everyone.
