One of the must-visit places in Marrakech is the beautiful Jardin Majorelle.
This exotic cactea garden was created about 75 years ago by Jacques Majorelle. He is also the one who chose the strong colors on the outer walls of the villa and pavilion in the garden. The vivid-cobalt-blue reminded him of the colors of Africa and is so characteristic and eye-catching, that it was even referred to as Majorelle Blue, at one point.
I love it! This color is so majestic, outspoken and artistic!
In 1966, Yves Saint Laurent and his partner visited Marrakech for the first time, discovered Jardin Majorelle and fell in love with the place.
It was no longer owned by Jacques Majorelle at that time. When years later YSL found out there were plans to build a hotel on the location he decided to purchase the garden and villa, move in there and succeeded to get the real-estate plans off the table. Bless you, Yves!
After YSL’s death, the garden and villa were donated to a foundation. There is a Berber museum on the premises, and the garden and museum are open for the public every day of the year.
Two colors dominate the place: the green from the succulents and bamboos and the cobalt blue from the buildings.
Bright yellow vases provide a playful contrast, there are ochre-colored paths and tiles and there is an inconspicuous (but lovely) pale color green here and there, like on parts of the gazebo.
Isn’t it beautiful? Do you get why you should visit Jardin Majorelle in Marrakech? Two hours should be enough to explore the garden and museum. For more information, click here.
If you want to find out more about Marrakech, you can read the following articles:
- my review about Marrakech
- my experiences in the Medina and the souks plus tips for successful explorations and bargaining
- my pictures and videos from the incredible and unique town square Jemaa El Fna
- where to stay in Marrakech and what is a riad
- the beautiful architecture from Marrakech and the best places to find it
- miscellanious: a.o. storks, spices and cooking classes
As I said, I love that cobalt blue and would not think twice to use this color when decorating my house or garden. How about you? Would you choose a strong color like this?
Have you visited Marrakech? What were the highlights of your trip?
This looks like an oasis. I do love that colour. I have used very dark and bold colours to decorate my homes in the past but now since we have very little natural light in my home we are going with white. It helps to brighten it up.
bisous
Suzanne
I can surely see you using bold colours in your house, but in a dark house you have to restrain yourself. I agree. My walls are going to have partial replastering in spring. So I intend to repaint my walls myself in summer. What colors shall I use? There are so many beautiful options. I would love something bolder than what I have now, but me too I have to restrain myself, since I have so much ‘stuff’ everywhere.
Love it. Ever so pretty. Must have been so nice to live there. I bought a shirt in this vivid colour blue. Indeed pretty.
What a shame there is an ordinary house in the background haha.
Greetje
Oh yes, YSL lived here in a peaceful, beautiful oasis. And boo for ‘ordinary houses’, hahaha.