Transforming Jemaa El Fna Square
The revitalization of Jemaa El Fna Square is currently underway and is nearing its final phase, according to Chakir Zahouane, the Director of Urban Development in the Marrakech-Safi region. This significant project is designed to enhance the square's sustainability and appeal, ensuring it continues to be a vibrant attraction for both locals and tourists alike. The primary focus of the ongoing works involves completely retiling the square. Technical teams began this task immediately after the detailed designs and the quality of the tiles were approved by the monitoring and management committee. A high-quality granite stone, with a thickness ranging from 6 to 8 centimeters, has been selected for this extensive coverage, which spans approximately 50,000 square meters. The process also included the removal of the old tiles and the installation of a robust reinforced concrete base to ensure the tiles remain level and withstand the test of time and heavy usage.
Furthermore, Zahouane highlighted that the execution of these works was carried out gradually and thoughtfully, given the square's nature as a bustling commercial and tourist hub. Continuous and close coordination among the company, local authorities, vendors, and all partners played a crucial role in maintaining a regular workflow, allowing the project to be completed without any risks or damages that could affect the safety of visitors and professionals in the area. Currently, the field team is cleaning the newly laid surfaces, which will be treated with a special protective liquid to facilitate regular maintenance and cleaning operations once the square is in use.
Additional Enhancements and Facilities
The rehabilitation efforts extended beyond the retiling of the main square; they also encompassed the complete renovation of the 'Arousset Belk' area, which will feature a distinctive water fountain at its center. Zahouane further noted that three modern public restrooms have been constructed, and these facilities are fully equipped and ready for use. Alongside this, a new tourist kiosk is in its final stages of completion, expected to align with the juice vendors and other sellers in the square, with the first batch anticipated to be operational by the end of June. Additionally, the company has replaced traditional concrete barriers with advanced automatic barriers to regulate access to the square. A comprehensive electrical network has been established to enhance the lighting and highlight the facades of public institutions facing the square at night.
As reported by ar.le360.ma.
