Historically, interior gardens featured across the Greco-Roman world, having spread from ancient Mesopotamia where remains have been found.
Later, interior gardens became popular in palaces in the Islamic world because they feature waters and greenery – associated with paradise. And also because they offered privacy and tranquility from the dusty, noisy cities without – something very much valued in Islamic society. Especially since the inner household where the women lived and worked, was kept separate from the outer areas where guests were received.
Nowadays, the word refers to guesthouses or boutique hotels in Morocco. Often in restored traditional mansions, which have shared common courtyard and perhaps shaded rooftop areas. Sometimes there is a shared balcony area too.
To stay in a riad is a much more personal experience than staying in a hotel. You can admire local artworks and handicrafts, and restored buildings and furniture. The renovation is often a work of love on behalf of the owners.
The recent boom in restoring the old mansions of Morocco, has in turn led to a revival of specialist artisan work which was previously being lost.
