Marrakech, the ancient imperial city of western Morocco, is a major economic center with mosques, palaces and gardens. The medina is a densely populated, fortified medieval city dating back to the Berber Empire, with labyrinthine alleys where lively souks (markets) sell traditional fabrics, pottery and jewelry. A symbol of the city, the minaret of the 12th-century Moorish Koutoubia Mosque can be seen for miles.