Marrakech Embarks on a Year-Long Celebration as the Islamic World’s Cultural Capital

Marrakech, the vibrant Moroccan city known for its red-hued charm, has officially commenced its prestigious role as the “Capital of Culture in the Islamic World for the year 2024.” The launch event unfolded at the Meydane Theater, marking the beginning of a year-long celebration dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic civilization.

The designation of Marrakech as the cultural capital for 2024 sets the stage for a series of engaging cultural, intellectual, and artistic events. These events aim to spotlight Marrakech’s unique allure, embodied in its mesmerizing Andalusian architecture, resplendent mosques, traditional Riyads, and the city’s vibrant oral heritage.

Distinguished figures, including the Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaïd, and the Director-General of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), Salem Ben Mohamed El Malek, graced the grand launch ceremony. Ambassadors from various Arab and Muslim countries were also in attendance.

The event unfolded with a captivating presentation delving into Marrakech’s heritage and historical monuments, emphasizing the city’s spirit of coexistence, tolerance, pluralism, and the art of living. Musical performances by the acclaimed band Fnaire and artist Nabyla Maan, creators of the official song for the event, added a melodic touch to the ceremony. The audience was further treated to mesmerizing musical and choreography performances by artist Yassine Lachheb, a Gnaoua show, and the Unity Dance group led by choreographer Zakaria Bennane.

During his address, the Director-General of ICESCO underscored Marrakech’s unique assets, including historical monuments, imposing ramparts, majestic palaces, enchanting gardens, and bustling streets. El Malik emphasized that choosing Marrakech as the cultural capital for 2024 holds significance as the city represents a tapestry of history, uniqueness, art, and cultural creation in all its forms.

Minister Bensaid, in a statement to the media, expressed that designating Marrakech as the Capital of Culture in the Islamic World for 2024 is a testament to the city’s cultural dynamism across various domains. He highlighted Marrakech’s global renown and pledged to leverage this opportunity to promote the city’s heritage and the broader Kingdom through a series of carefully curated cultural events and activities.

Collaborating with ICESCO and the Municipal Council of Marrakech, the Ministry of Culture aims to ensure that the year-long celebration fulfills the expectations of both locals and enthusiasts of the captivating city.

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