Marrakech Sets Guinness World Record for Longest Storytelling Session at Jamaâ el Fna

Tuesday 28 January 2025 - 15:04

Marrakech, once again, showcased its cultural brilliance by making its mark in the Guinness World Records. The city hosted the longest storytelling session ever recorded, lasting 80 hours and 35 minutes. This remarkable feat took place during the International Storytelling Festival of Marrakech, held from January 19 to 26 at the iconic Jamaâ El Fna Square, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

This Guinness World Record further reinforces Marrakech's image as a cultural crossroads and an ambassador of peace through art. Known as "Al Bahja" for its joyful and welcoming spirit, the city solidified its reputation as a beacon of creativity and tradition.

The event, centered around the theme of "joy," was made possible through a partnership with the Moroccan National Tourism Office and brought together over a hundred storytellers from Morocco and around the world. These artists captivated an audience from across the globe, showcasing the magic of storytelling as a bridge between local traditions and universal themes. Beyond the record itself, the event highlighted the richness of Morocco’s oral heritage and the crucial role of storytellers in preserving collective memory.

Jamaâ El Fna Square, the heartbeat of Marrakech, echoed with captivating stories, affirming its status as the cradle of oral art. The festival also featured interactive workshops, diverse performances, and thematic lectures, with topics such as the educational impact of storytelling and its role in mental well-being. This ambitious program reaffirmed the importance of this ancient tradition as a tool for transmission and intercultural dialogue.

The festival also honored two significant figures in the art of storytelling, Nadiya Belghiti Alaoui and Jean Roux, who were crowned "Golden Storytellers of Marrakech" for their dedication to this centuries-old art form. This edition brought together storytellers from 30 countries, sharing tales inspired by their respective traditions, illustrating the universal appeal of storytelling.