Morocco Earthquake: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Marrakesh Ancient Buildings Severely Damaged

The devastating earthquake that rocked the country of Morocco has claimed over 2,000 lives. And many people are still trapped beneath the rubble, approximately 3,00,000 people have been affected by this devastating natural disaster. However, besides the massive damage to the lives of the people, several heritage sites, which are also top tourist destinations like those in the city of Marrakesh have also experienced some losses.

Precious Heritage Sites Damaged Due To Morocco Earthquake

The devastating earthquake that rocked through the country has also affected legendary heritage sites in Morocco according to a report by The National News. For instance, Almoravids, which was founded in the 11th century is located near the epicentre of the earthquake that rocked the country on Friday, September 8. As it is home to several monuments from this period, many have suffered quite a bit of substantial damage. As it happens, some of them have been completely destroyed and it is quite worrying, as the city is also bracing for the after-shocks as the latest of them hit on Sunday with a magnitude of 4.5.

Also Read: Cristiano Ronaldo’s Marrakech Hotel Serves As Refuge To Morocco Earthquake Victims

The Walls Separating The Historic Districts Have Also Been Destroyed

Similarly, Jemaa El Fnaa Square, which is located in the heart of the Old City, saw the minaret of the Kharboush mosque, collapse. While authorities have sealed the same at the moment, the whole Mosque is believed to be at risk of collapse. Moreover, Kutubiyya Mosque, which is a spiritual centre where 50,000 people offer Tarawih Prayer after evening prayers during Ramadan appears whole from the outside. However, the report mentioned that several media outlets have stated that its 77 m high minaret known as Marrakesh’s Roofe has suffered substantial cracks.

As it happens, Tinmel mosque has also been destroyed, which dates back to the 12th century. According to the same report, it was also mentioned that the Deputy Chairman of Marrakesh’s Provincial Council, Dr Ismail Shaouf, revealed that the city walls enclosing historic districts of the city to separate them from the modern ones have also been destroyed.

This is deeply saddening news as Morocco is home to nine world heritage sites, which also include the city of Marrakesh. As a result, people are sharing their sadness for the painful loss of historic treasures and lives.

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