On display in numerous stalls of Marrakech’s souks are ornate lanterns and scones. Their material ranges from bronze, brass, silver and sometimes tin. Historically, souqs served caravans of travelers. The open-air markets of Marrakech date back to the early 12th century when it was walled-in to protect the early northwestern Africa settlers. Today, this remnant of medieval times is a maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings and traditional trades. The word “souk” was a French spelling from the 19th century.