Dar El Bacha – Museum of Confluences

Dar el Bacha, also known as "The House of the Pasha," is a stunning palace built in 1910. It was the residence of Thami El Glaoui, who was appointed Pasha of Marrakech by Sultan Moulay Youssef in 1912. Renovated by the FNM and opened in 2017, Dar el Bacha is now a museum that represents a beautiful example of traditional Moroccan architecture, featuring fountains and orange trees in the central courtyard, traditional salons, and a hammam. The palace's symmetrical design, intricate tilework, and carved wooden ceilings highlight the richness of Moroccan decorative arts.

The museum houses collections from the Marrakech region, including Tensift, Souss, the High Atlas, the Anti Atlas, Bani, and Tafilalet. These collections include wooden artifacts, jewelry, pottery and ceramics, weapons, carpets and textiles, and some archaeological pieces, including a remarkable 11th-century marble basin.

Patti Birch’s collection is enhanced by donations from passionate collectors like Khalid El Gharib, who has always supported the FNM’s actions and the Dar El Bacha Museum of Confluences. The museum's collection comprises 1,342 pieces.

Entrance Fee:

30 Dhs for nationals
60 Dhs for foreigners
15 Dhs for children under 18
Free access on Wednesdays for students and pupils
Free access on Fridays for Moroccans, foreign residents, and students
Free access for teachers and ICOM cardholders

Note:

Dar el Bacha is a cultural hub offering insights into Morocco’s rich heritage, making it an ideal destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Moroccan culture.

How can I get to:

Derb El Bahia, Riad Zitoun Jdid, Marrakech, Morocco.

Opening Hours:

Open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Closed on Monday.

Good To Know:

- Historical Significance: The palace has hosted notable figures such as Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Meryl Streep, and Owen Wilson.
- Architecture: The riad’s layout is symmetrically aligned with the central walkways, comprising several dependencies such as the traditional hammam, the douiria (servants' quarters), the library, and the private family area (harem).
- Craftsmanship: The museum features exquisite zellige tiles and sculpted wooden ceilings, showcasing the ingenuity and finesse of Moroccan artisans.
- Water and Heating Systems: The palace’s water supply and drainage system, along with the hammam's heating system, are testaments to Moroccan craftsmanship.
- Cultural and Heritage Significance: The museum highlights both tangible and intangible cultural and heritage contributions that have shaped Morocco's identity.

FAQ