Discover more about riads in marrakesh !

A Riad or Riyadh is a form of traditional vernacular architecture of Morocco (home, hotel, restaurant, palace ...) originally in the medina (historic centers of Morocco's cities).

 

Usually high one to four stories, the riads are entirely closed to the outside by high walls neutral, austere and secret with minimal opening for protection from heat and noise of the street.

The riad is organized around a patio / lounge / dining area Central at the base of an architectural structure shaft-like tiered balcony turned to the interior, inspired by the traditional Arab-Andalusian habitat, Persian heritage and Roman heritage (atrium domus and habitation of ancient Rome).

The course fees and conditioned patio is inspired oasis Islamic Persian garden and garden (hence the name of the riads), and is usually planted with trees, greenery and equipped with water fountains and refreshing pools.

The rooms are on the upper floors and the top of the well is opened or closed by a canvas or a retractable glass roof according to the season, the level of light, heat, weather ... The roof is landscaped rooftop terrace with generally steam room and solarium panoramic view of the other rooftop terrace of the medina.

The riads are usually decorated with traditional and harmonious way, even luxurious, with old elements of Islamic architecture, Moorish architecture, Moroccan crafts, arts of Islam, Arab Islamic geometrical figures and ceramic zellige ... They are one of the important and highly sought after tourism in Morocco, and as a holiday resort.

The growth of new cities has led to disaffection and degradation of traditional habitats. It was not until the 1960s and 1970s for artists, diplomats and celebrities, seduced by these abandoned jewels, restore old houses in Fez, Rabat, Salé, Meknes, Tangier, Marrakech and Essaouira ... Some of them settled there permanently, others spend a few months in the year, tasting the inexpressible pleasure of being alone, with family or with friends in a house outside of time.

By abusive extension and on a commercial basis, the term "riad" has been associated with other types of homes in Morocco. These may be located outside the ancient city (medina) and do not have patio with garden. Riad becomes an adjective that qualifies any home that incorporates some elements of the architecture or decoration authentic riads of the medinas. There is talk of "villa riad", "riad dar", "riad Kasbah" and even "riad hotel."