Our hearts are with the people of Morocco as the news is unfolding about the devastating earthquake in Marrakesh. Morocco is a vibrant global center of historic and contemporary art and culture — with several regions, including Marrakesh, recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, we are sharing more of Doris Duke and Shangri La’s connections to Morocco in hopes of spreading awareness for current events and further appreciation for Moroccan artistry and culture.

In May 1937, Doris Duke and her husband James Cromwell traveled to Morocco (then a French Protectorate) where they visited Marrakesh, Rabad, Fedala (now Muhammadia) and most likely Tangiers. It is there Doris Duke experienced the incredible artistry of Morocco including: zellij (tilework), carved and painted wood ceilings, mashrabiyya (carved and turned wood screens), chemmassiat (colored-glass windows), and carved plasterwork.