Named after nearby Ben Youssef Mosque, Ben Youssef Madrasa was once the largest Islamic college in the Magreb. Now a historical site, the 16th-century madrasa is considered one of the best examples of Saadian and Moroccan architecture. The site also has a 11th-century marble basin dating from the Caliphate era of Cordoba, Spain. © Simon Hack | Dreamstime.com

A fundamental tradition in Moroccan culture is the mint tea ceremony. A symbol of Moroccan hospitality, this ritual involves the brewing and serving of mint tea, in which the host gathers the ingredients, teapot and glasses on a silver tray; brews the tea; infuses it; pours the tea; and serves the tea in a mesmerizing process, creating a frothy top layer. © Jennifer Stone | Dreamstime.com

Bahia Palace wows visitors and locals thanks to its 150 rooms, courtyards and riad gardens. The 19th-century palace is best known for its decorations, painted wood ceilings, sculpted stucco and tilework. The palace also spans gardens, parks, a mosque and even stables. © Milosk50 | Dreamstime.com

Within greater Marrakech is the Medina, the historic and walled old city center of Marrakech. Dating back to the 11th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site features mazes of streets teeming with mosques, riads and souks. © Daniel M. Cisilino | Dreamstime.com

Within the city’s Medina is Jamaa El Fna square, often considered the heart of the old city center. In the day, explore its food stalls and shops. When night comes, the area transforms into an open-air theater with show-stopping performances by musicians, storytellers and beyond. © Kasto80 | Dreamstime.com

You’ll find handcrafted metal plates at souks, including ones specializing in other metallic crafts like lanterns, such as Souk Semmarine. These plates and trays are used for a variety of purposes, from serving trays for mint tea ceremonies to platters for traditional Moroccan food. © Hoang Bao Nguyen | Dreamstime.com