Tuesday, 29 October 2013

Morocco 6: Random corners and museums.


The light cloudy-grey gives Marrakesh a Lowry atmosphere, just put a chimney in place of the mosque.
I think small fragments of a place can be even more evocative then classic views. Most of the major attractions are so well known that I've avoided them.




One of many decorative door knockers, some in the shape of the Hand of Fatima (a symbol apparently pre-dating Islam, Christianity and Judaism but used in all three under various names)





A cunning plan to keep streets clean, and collect manure for the garden.








I'd like to think she's dairy rather than beef.




Colours that would seem garish at home just seem to go together.


The wonderful miller's kingdom.


Arabic, followed by the Berber script




Plant market in Marrakesh main square, sadly too difficult to buy & bring them home!


Dyes for the tempting scarves, said to be natural but I'm not convinced.





Various old museums and palaces, beautifully decorated in Islamic style.








Traditional style dwelling, a riyadh, rooms for the extended family round cool courtyards, with roof gardens. Many now guesthouses or restaurants. The outsides are quite plain with no windows, apparently to encourage one to focus on the family rather than other peoples' business.




"Hand" turned wood with extraordinary skill and coordination.



Monday, 28 October 2013

Morocco 5:People


Does anyone know anything about these men, they seemed to be giving drinks to local people, but were not averse to taking money to be photographed.


Musicians in the main square in Marrakesh accosting a passer-by, they spent ages talking to her adding a hat and getting her to dance. Maybe a friend, or previous band member, but we didn't see any other ladies entertaining.


One of our mule-men, nicknamed Monsieur 'Ollywood for his enthusiasm to be photographed.


Many of the people we met were very happy to be photographed, and tickled by the results. As a rule ladies of a sensible age were reluctant.


Mint tea seller with his grand daughters.




The miller, a wonderful face, enhanced by the flour.





The Berbers are so beautiful, this lass reminded me of Vermeer's 'Girl With a pearl Earring'