The El Badii Palace, whose name means "The Incomparable" or "The Marvel," was once the most magnificent palace in the Moroccan empire. Built by Saadian Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur between 1578 and 1593 to celebrate his victory over the Portuguese at the Battle of the Three Kings, the palace took 25 years to complete and was decorated with materials sourced from around the world—Italian marble, Irish granite, gold from Sudan, and jade from India. Contemporary accounts describe 360 rooms surrounding a massive courtyard with sunken gardens, four pools, and pavilions adorned with such splendor that visitors were left speechless.
Though today the palace stands in romantic ruins (stripped of its riches in the 17th century), these weathered walls tell a powerful story about the impermanence of material wealth and the enduring nature of architectural vision. The vast scale of the courtyards, the sophisticated design of the water systems, and the remaining decorative elements reveal the ambition and artistry of its creators. The palace's name wasn't just boastful—historical records confirm it truly was incomparable in its day, hosting legendary celebrations including the Sultan's son's wedding, a 50-day festival that showcased the palace's grandeur to dignitaries from across the world.
Our Suite Badi honors both the palace's former glory and its current state of dignified beauty. As our second-largest suite at 34m², it provides the spacious, airy feeling of the palace's grand halls. Fresh, light colors recall what the palace once was—brilliant, pristine, and full of life—while high decorated ceilings echo the architectural magnificence that remains. The exterior windows allow morning light to stream in, much like how sunlight plays through the palace's ruined arches, creating an atmosphere that is both majestic and intimate. This suite proves that incomparable luxury doesn't require ostentation; it requires space, light, thoughtful design, and an understanding of historical significance.