Ronaldo opens doors of his hotel to earthquake survivors

Rabat): Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo has extended a helping hand to victims of the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco’s mountainous High Atlas region on Friday, leaving widespread destruction and tragedy in its wake.

The powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake, which originated around 45 miles from the city of Marrakech, has claimed the lives of over 2,000 people as of Sunday evening, with many more injured or still missing.

Amid the chaos and heartbreak, several organizations and businesses based in Marrakech have rallied to provide assistance to those affected by the earthquake. Among them is Pestana CR7 Marrakech, a luxury hotel owned by Cristiano Ronaldo.

Reports suggest that the Pestana CR7 Marrakech hotel has opened its doors to offer shelter to individuals and families who have lost their homes in the disaster.

Situated in the M Avenue district within the historic old town area of Marrakech, Ronaldo’s 174-room hotel is renowned for its luxurious Moroccan-inspired ambiance. However, in response to the earthquake, the hotel has transformed itself into a sanctuary for those in need.

Morocco earthquake damages historic mosque, death toll reaches 2,000

The earthquake has inflicted severe damage on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed old town of Marrakech, with numerous buildings and ancient city walls collapsing.

The labyrinthine alleyways have further complicated rescue and relief efforts, making it challenging to locate and safely transport the injured.

Across the city, public buildings, town squares, and even roundabouts have been rapidly converted into emergency shelters, with makeshift beds set up to accommodate those left homeless by the disaster.

Cristiano Ronaldo is providing shelter for those affected by the earthquake in Morocco.

He has made his Pestana CR7 Hotel in Marrakesh, Morocco available. pic.twitter.com/DMkHSXyLrS

— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) September 9, 2023

Ronaldo’s compassionate gesture is not the sole example of support emanating from the world of soccer. On Saturday, members of the Moroccan national football team generously donated blood to aid in the medical treatment of earthquake victims.

Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi took to social media to express his solidarity, saying, “We are going through a difficult time for all our fellow citizens. It’s time to help each other save as many lives as possible. My condolences to everyone who has lost a loved one.”

The earthquake has drawn both local and international efforts to alleviate the suffering and provide solace to the affected population as Morocco grapples with the aftermath of this devastating natural disaster.