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Rahba Kedima (Spice Square):
Marrakech’s Fragrant Heart

Rahba Kedima (Spice Square):

Nestled in the Medina near the souks, Rahba Kedima — also known as Spice Square — is one of Marrakech’s most aromatic and colorful spots. For centuries, this lively square has been the center of the city’s spice trade, where merchants, herbalists, and locals gather to exchange goods and remedies.

🏛️ History of the Square

Rahba Kedima has long been associated with the apothecaries and spice traders of Marrakech. In the past, it was a hub where caravans from the Sahara and sub-Saharan Africa arrived, bringing exotic spices, medicinal herbs, and natural dyes. Today, it remains a vital link to Morocco’s traditional healing practices and culinary culture.

Rahba Kedima

🌿 What to Find Here

The stalls are stacked with an extraordinary variety of goods:

  • Spices: saffron, turmeric, paprika, cinnamon, cumin.

  • Herbs & plants: mint, verbena, and thyme for teas.

  • Natural cosmetics: argan oil, rose water, and black soap.

  • Traditional remedies: dried roots, resins, and herbal mixtures.

  • Exotic curiosities: chameleons, hedgehogs, and rare herbs once used in folk medicine.

The kaleidoscope of colors and aromas makes Rahba Kedima an unforgettable sensory experience.

💡 Tips for Visitors

  • Ask about the uses of herbs — locals love to share knowledge.

  • Don’t be shy to smell and touch the spices.

  • Bargain with a smile; prices are flexible.

✨ Conclusion

Rahba Kedima is more than a square — it’s a window into Morocco’s traditional knowledge and flavors. For DARSTAY guests, it’s a must-visit for both shoppers and the simply curious.