ANIMA
A three-hectare art and plant garden near Marrakesh, Morocco
ANIMA is a three-hectare garden near Marrakesh, Morocco, where visitors walk among a wide variety of plants alongside sculptures and artworks by artists from around the world. Created by André Heller, the garden blends botanical displays with art, water features, and architecture in a setting at the foot of the Atlas Mountains.
- Combines plant displays with sculptures by international artists
- Located at the foot of the Atlas Mountains near Marrakesh
- Covers three hectares of formerly barren land
- Created by André Heller over six years
- Features works by artists like Picasso and Keith Haring
What is ANIMA?
ANIMA is a garden that brings together a wide range of plants and flowers with sculptures and installations by international artists. Paths wind through lush greenery, past water features and architectural elements. The garden covers about three hectares and is set against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, offering a mix of natural and artistic sights.
The history of ANIMA
The garden was established on land that was once dry and unused at the base of the Atlas Mountains. Austrian artist André Heller led the project, which took six years to complete. ANIMA opened its doors to visitors in 2016, aiming to create a space where art and nature come together in a unique way.
What there is to see
Visitors to ANIMA can explore a series of themed areas, each combining plantings with sculptures and water features. The garden was designed to integrate art and nature, with works by artists such as Pablo Picasso and Keith Haring placed among the plants. The layout encourages wandering and discovery.
When to go
ANIMA is open to the public and welcomes visitors throughout the year. It serves as a destination for those interested in gardens, art, and landscape design. The garden is a place for leisurely walks, cultural events, and enjoying the blend of vegetation and contemporary sculpture.
Parts and collections
The garden features works by a range of international artists, with sculptures and installations that change or are added over time. The plantings include a variety of species suited to the Moroccan climate, arranged to complement the art and the natural landscape.
Why ANIMA matters
ANIMA is known for its integration of visual art and horticulture, making it a notable cultural site near Marrakesh. The presence of works by artists such as Picasso and Haring adds to its reputation as a meeting point for art and nature. The garden has become a destination for both tourists and locals seeking inspiration and relaxation.
Questions people ask about ANIMA
Where is ANIMA located?
ANIMA is situated in the Ourika Valley, close to Marrakesh in Morocco, at the base of the Atlas Mountains.
Who created ANIMA garden?
The garden was developed by André Heller, an artist from Austria, over a period of six years.
What can visitors see at ANIMA?
Visitors can explore a mix of botanical displays, sculptures, water features, and architectural elements, with artworks by international artists.
When did ANIMA open to the public?
ANIMA opened its doors to visitors in 2016 after several years of development.
What makes ANIMA unique?
ANIMA stands out for its combination of art and horticulture, featuring sculptures by well-known artists set among diverse plantings.
Good reading and sources
- Official websiteOfficial site
- Morocco’s happy valley – the wilderness that lies just beyond the souks of MarrakechThe Guardian, Article
- Anima (garden) on WikipediaEncyclopedia
- More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
- Wikidata recordOpen data
The facts on this page come from the Wikipedia article "Anima (garden)", written by its contributors and used under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Phool rewrote the text in its own words, with AI assistance, and compares every page with the article to make sure no passage is copied. It may be reused under the same CC BY-SA 4.0 licence with a link back.
It may contain mistakes. Opening times, prices and bloom dates change: check with the place before you travel. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-03.
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