Rahba Kedima (the Old Square) is the spice market at the heart of Marrakech's souk system — a small, irregular plaza surrounded by stalls selling the spices, herbs, cosmetics, and traditional remedies that have been traded in this location since the city's founding. The square is sometimes called the Place des Épices (Spice Square) and is the most aromatically intense space in the medina — pyramids of cumin, saffron, turmeric, cinnamon, and paprika create a palette of colour and scent that overwhelms first-time visitors.
The spice vendors are among the most knowledgeable merchants in the souk — the best (identifiable by the locals buying from them rather than tourists) can explain the origin, quality, and use of every spice in their display, and the education you receive from a good spice merchant is worth more than the spices you buy. Saffron (Morocco is a significant producer), ras el hanout (the complex spice blend whose name means 'head of the shop,' meaning the merchant's best blend), and argan oil (produced from the nuts of a tree that grows only in Morocco) are the essential purchases.
The square also houses traditional apothecary stalls selling kohl (eye liner), ghassoul (clay used for hair and skin washing), and the herbal preparations that straddle the line between cosmetic and medicine. The terrace cafés overlooking the square (Café des Épices, Le Jardin) provide elevated views across the spice displays and the souk traffic, and the afternoon spent sitting above the square with a mint tea, watching the spice trade in action, is one of Marrakech's most contemplative experiences.
Verified Facts
Rahba Kedima means 'the Old Square'
Ras el hanout means 'head of the shop' — the merchant's best blend
Argan oil comes from trees that grow only in Morocco
Ghassoul is a traditional Moroccan clay used for washing
Get walking directions
Rahba Kedima, Medina, Marrakech
