The Majorelle Garden and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum (YSL Museum Marrakech) offer one of the most enchanting cultural experiences in Marrakech. A harmonious blend of botanical wonders, artistic heritage, and fashion history, these two iconic sites are located side by side in the upscale Gueliz neighborhood and attract visitors from around the world.
Majorelle Garden: a botanical masterpiece
Created in the 1920s by French painter Jacques Majorelle, then restored by Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, the Majorelle Garden is a living, immersive, vibrant, and serene work of art.
- Main features of the garden
- Exotic botanical collection
It is home to more than 300 plant species from five continents, including cacti, bamboo, palm trees, bougainvillea, agaves, and imposing yuccas. - Majorelle Blue
The iconic electric cobalt blue color found on walls, fountains, and structures has become a symbol of the garden's identity. - Architectural elements
Inspired by Moorish and Art Deco styles, the garden has the following features:
Elegant pergolas
- Ornate fountains
- Bright yellow accents
- Paved paths winding through lush vegetation
- A soothing atmosphere
The garden offers a peaceful haven away from the hustle and bustle of the medina: shaded, cool, and filled with birdsong.
The Berber Museum
Within the Majorelle Garden is the Berber Museum, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Morocco's indigenous Amazigh (Berber) communities.
Strengths
- Jewelry, textiles, leather goods, and traditional clothing.
- Antique objects showcasing Berber craftsmanship.
- Beautifully staged exhibitions with modern lighting and presentation.
This museum explores the cultural context of the garden and complements its artistic identity.
Yves Saint Laurent Museum (YSL Museum Marrakech)
Opened in 2017, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum pays tribute to the legendary designer's lifelong love for Marrakech, a city he described as "a place where I found color, light, and inspiration."
Brilliant architecture:
The building itself is a masterpiece of contemporary design:
- Rounded facades made of terracotta bricks
- Minimalist and geometric lines
- Inspired by both Moroccan textures and haute couture silhouettes
Designed by Studio KO, it harmoniously combines architecture, fashion, and art.
Museum features:
Permanent Exhibition Hall A spectacular, beautifully lit showcase displaying YSL's most iconic haute couture pieces, accessories, sketches, and film projections.- Temporary exhibitions
Temporary exhibitions on photography, fashion, and contemporary art.
Auditorium and Screening Room Screening of films and documentaries about YSL and global fashion culture.
Research Library Over 5,000 books on Moroccan fashion, art, history, and crafts.
café and boutique Chic spaces inspired by the brand's aesthetic.
The museum offers a rare glimpse into the genius of one of the most influential creators of the 20th century.
The connection between the garden and YSL
Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé purchased the Majorelle Garden in 1980, saving it from demolition. The duo restored the garden, scrupulously respecting Majorelle's vision.
- YSL considered this garden his personal refuge.
- After his death in 2008, his ashes were scattered in the rose garden.
- Today, the garden and museum pay tribute to his creativity, passion, and enduring legacy.
Visitor experience
Atmosphere
- Peaceful, artistic, and visually stunning.
- One of the best places in Marrakech for photography.
A popular destination for art lovers, botanists, and design enthusiasts.
Time required
- Majorelle Garden: 45 to 60 minutes.
- YSL Museum: 60 to 90 minutes.
- Best time to visit
- Early in the morning or late afternoon (to avoid the crowds).
During the week for a quieter experience
Location and accessibility
Located in Guéliz, outside the medina, the garden and museum are easily accessible.
Nearby attractions:
- Guéliz shopping district
- Contemporary art galleries
- Trendy cafés and local shops
Most taxis and transportation services are familiar with this destination.
Advice for visitors
- Purchase your tickets online in advance (lines can be long).
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths can be uneven.
- Photography is permitted in the garden but prohibited inside the YSL Museum.
- Combine both sites into one visit to fully enjoy the experience.
