Koutoubia — Attraction in Marrakesh Prefecture

The Koutoubia Mosque, or جامع الكتبية, is a distinguished landmark in Marrakech, renowned for its impressive architecture and rich history. Dating back to the 12th century, this mosque is not only a place of worship but also a key piece of Moroccan heritage.

**1. Historical and Cultural Significance:

• The Koutoubia Mosque, constructed during the Almohad dynasty, exemplifies classic Almohad architecture with its iconic minaret standing at 77 meters. It was a major center for book trade, hence the name “Koutoubia,” derived from “kutubiyyin,” meaning booksellers .

**2. Curiosities and Lesser-Known Facts:

• Dual Construction: The mosque has two distinct structures—the original mosque and a secondary one built due to alignment errors with Mecca. The remnants of the first structure can still be seen beside the main building . • Unique Lighting: The minaret is topped with a gilded copper sphere. There are myths that it’s made from the melted jewelry of the wife of Yacoub al-Mansur, the mosque’s founder, as penance for breaking her fast during Ramadan .

**3. Special Recommendations:

• Nighttime Visit: The Koutoubia Mosque is particularly enchanting when illuminated at night. The surrounding gardens, the “Jardin de la Koutoubia,” provide a serene setting for evening walks .

**4. Access Information:

• Non-Muslim Access: Entry to the mosque is restricted to Muslims, as is customary with most mosques in Morocco. Non-Muslims can admire the architecture from outside and explore the surrounding gardens .

**5. Travel Tips:

• Combine with Nearby Sights: The Koutoubia is close to Jemaa el-Fnaa square and the historic medina. Plan to visit these nearby attractions to get a fuller experience of Marrakech’s vibrant culture .

Whether you are captivated by its historical depth or its architectural elegance, the Koutoubia Mosque stands as a testament to Marrakech’s storied past and remains a must-see...

The Kutubiyya Mosque or Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakesh, Morocco. It is located in the southwest medina quarter of Marrakesh, near the Jemaa el-Fnaa market place, and is flanked by large gardens. The mosque was founded in 1147 by the Almohad caliph Abd al-Mu'min right after he conquered Marrakesh from the Almoravids. A second version of the mosque was entirely rebuilt by Abd al-Mu'min around 1158, with Ya'qub al-Mansur possibly finalizing construction of the minaret around 1195. This second mosque is the structure that stands today. It is an important example of Almohad architecture and of Moroccan mosque architecture generally. The minaret tower, 77 metres (253 ft) in height, is decorated with varying geometric arch motifs and topped by a spire and metal orbs. It likely inspired other buildings such as the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower of Rabat, which were built shortly after in the same era. The minaret is also considered an important landmark and symbol of Marrakesh. The Kutubiyya Mosque's original minbar (pulpit) was commissioned by Ali ibn Yusuf, one of the last Almoravid rulers, and created by a workshop in Cordoba, Spain (al-Andalus). Its production started in 1137 and is estimated to have taken seven years. It is regarded as “one of the unsurpassed creations of Islamic art”. Its artistic style and quality was hugely influential and set a standard which was repeatedly imitated, but never surpassed, in subsequent minbars across Morocco and parts of Algeria. It is believed that the minbar was originally placed in the first Ben Youssef Mosque (named after Ali ibn Yusuf, but entirely rebuilt in later centuries). It was then transferred by the Almohad ruler Abd al-Mu'min to the first Kutubiyya Mosque and was later moved to the second incarnation of that mosque. It remained there until 1962, when it was moved to the El Badi Palace where it is now on display...

My visit to the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh was truly unforgettable. As the largest mosque in the city, it stands as an iconic landmark with its stunning minaret visible from all around. I was really excited to see it in person, and it did not disappoint!

The Koutoubia Mosque is a masterpiece of architecture. The intricate details, the beautiful arches, and the grand minaret, which rises 77 meters high, are all breathtaking. Even though non-Muslims are not allowed inside the mosque, the exterior alone is worth the visit. Walking around the mosque grounds, I was able to appreciate the craftsmanship and the peaceful atmosphere.

One of the things I loved most was the surrounding gardens. The gardens are well-maintained and offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. I spent some time wandering through them, enjoying the fragrant flowers and the sound of birds. It's a perfect spot to relax and take in the beauty of the mosque.

I learned a lot about the history of the Koutoubia Mosque during my visit. Built in the 12th century, it has been a central part of Marrakesh for centuries. The name "Koutoubia" comes from the Arabic word for bookseller, as the area was once a bustling market for books. This historical context added a layer of depth to my visit, making it even more meaningful.

What’s great is that the Koutoubia Mosque is centrally located, making it easy to incorporate into your sightseeing itinerary. It’s close to the Jemaa el-Fnaa square, so you can easily explore other attractions nearby.

If you’re in Marrakesh, the Koutoubia Mosque is a must-see. Its architectural beauty and historical significance make it a highlight of any visit to the city. Even if you can’t go inside, the exterior and the surrounding gardens are more than enough to leave a...