Jemaa El Fna Square is one of the most prominent cultural and entertainment landmarks in Marrakesh, Morocco. The square is a lively hub in the city, where locals and tourists come together to enjoy a variety of shows and events.
Historically, Jemaa El Fna Square was a meeting point between the historic city and the surrounding area, such as the Kasbah of the Makhzen and the Mellah. The square is characterized by its traditional Moroccan design, surrounded by traditional buildings, markets, cafes and restaurants.
The square is a center of popular spectacle, where many performers, puzzle-tellers and storytellers gather to dazzle the crowds with their exciting performances. Visitors can enjoy watching snake tamers, traditional musicians and many other artistic performances in the square.
Jemaa El Fna Square has been considered part of Morocco’s intangible human heritage, having been included in the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity declared by UNESCO in 2001. This recognition reflects the value of the square as a unique cultural and heritage place worthy of protection and preservation for future generations.
In short, Jemaa El Fna Square is a distinctive place in the city of Marrakesh that attracts locals and tourists from all over the world to enjoy folk spectacle, entertainment and discover local culture.
The naming of the place as Jemaa el-Fna and its interpretation raise some controversy and questions. Indeed, there are some historical accounts that indicate the existence of an abandoned mosque in the place where Jemaa el-Fna Square became. Some historical testimonies indicate that Prince Sultan Moulay Ahmed Al-Mansour Al-Dhahabi built a mosque in that area, but it was not completed and was called Jemaa el-Fna.
However, it cannot be confirmed exactly whether the current mosque in Jemaa el-Fna Square is the same mosque referred to in those historical accounts or not. The original mosque may have disappeared over time or been destroyed. Therefore, it is not possible to definitively judge the veracity of these historical narratives.
It must be taken into account that the naming and its interpretation may have multiple and diverse aspects, and opinions and narratives may differ about it. It is part of local heritage and history, and there may be ongoing debate about it among researchers and historians.
Whatever the possible explanations for the name Jemaa El Fna, Jemaa El Fna Square still maintains its international reputation as an important cultural and entertainment center in the city of Marrakesh. The square attracts visitors from all over the world to enjoy the popular spectacle and rich local heritage.
UNESCO announced the concept of “Oral Heritage of Humanity” at a meeting held in the Moroccan city of Marrakesh in 1997. This concept was defined with the aim of preserving and highlighting the values of oral works and intangible heritage. Emphasis was placed on differentiating between oral heritage works with the aim of preserving and enhancing them.
A list of distinguished oral heritage was first announced in 2001, with countries submitting their own distinctive traditions. The list is updated every two years. Nomination requires that artifacts be an expression of a living or threatened cultural heritage, and must have programs for its preservation and development.
In 2003, the Member States of UNESCO adopted a Convention for the Safeguarding of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity, the implementation of which began in April 2006. The Intergovernmental Committee has developed practical guidelines for this treaty, and a representative list of pre-established traditions has been identified and new ones are registered each year.
This agreement and the lists produced from it aim to protect and preserve the oral heritage of humanity, enhance awareness of it, and enhance international efforts to preserve this valuable cultural heritage.
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