Majorelle Garden – Between Green and Cobalt Blue

The Majorelle Garden is the most famous attraction in the modern part of Marrakech. It’s truly impossible to leave the city without visiting the villa and its renowned gardens.

The Majorelle Garden is a true oasis of peace amid the chaos of Marrakech. The complex includes the villa and its lush gardens filled with palm trees, cacti, orange trees, and rose bushes. What makes it so special are the cobalt blue tones that color every corner.

The truth about the Majorelle Garden is that it really is beautiful. I’m often disappointed by overly famous tourist attractions, but this garden truly offers a breath of fresh air — and a taste of Europe — when you feel overwhelmed by the chaos of Marrakech.

It’s nothing like the grand gardens of Versailles, yet — trust me — taking a break here is just what you need to recharge before diving back into the Medina.

The other truth? It’s extremely crowded. Come early in the morning and buy your ticket online. You’ll avoid the endless queues under the sun (yes, even in January!).

The gardens were designed by French artist Jacques Majorelle. In 1924, the painter moved to Marrakech seeking relief from illness in the mild climate.

Majorelle decided to paint the villa in an intense cobalt blue. The hue became so iconic that it was named after him: “Majorelle Blue.”

The Botanical Garden

The botanical garden is divided into two main areas:

The Moroccan Garden

The first garden you encounter is the Moroccan garden, designed in Moorish style.

It hosts a variety of cacti and palm trees. The interplay of blue and ochre yellow is repeated in fountains, arches, and tiles.

The French Garden

The area to the left past the gate is a garden inspired by European design.

In the French garden, you’ll find koi ponds and pergolas with different varieties of citrus trees. The orange of the fruit complements the yellow and blue tones.

Yves Saint Laurent

Despite its beauty, after the artist’s death the Majorelle Garden fell into neglect.

Luckily, it was rediscovered in 1980 by Yves Saint Laurent. The designer restored the villa and the gardens, making it his personal residence.

The garden also became Yves Saint Laurent’s burial place. A mausoleum dedicated to the designer stands in the garden — a column surrounded by a beautiful rose garden.

After his death, the property was donated to the city of Marrakech and is now one of the most visited attractions. For this reason, it’s best to book online or arrive early to avoid the queue.

The Museums of Majorelle Garden

The Berber Museum, located within the villa, is accessible from the gardens and showcases examples of Islamic decorative arts.

The Yves Saint Laurent Museum is in a separate nearby building and houses the designer’s most iconic creations.

Discover more: If you enjoyed Marrakech, explore other destinations in Morocco and download the complete Marrakech guide.