Madrasa Ben Youssef — Attraction in Marrakesh Prefecture

This actual area and the museum are very nice and we visited in a quiet weekday in December. However to try to get out to the main square without going back througblh the maze of souks we took an alleyway down by the museum thinking it appeared clean and like it led to sonewhere. We should have stopped when there were no market stalls. It didn't take long to get scammed. It is a very clever scheme these people use. One man approaches, very friendly directing you (further into) the maze of alleys saying that the Berbers are down for the day to sell their leather products. He then shouts at a man and asks him to lead the way. This second man never communicates or interacts, in fact to an outsider would not even look like he is with anyone (that's the whole point). After going through some pretty grim market areas (obviously where the locals do their shopping) we then "bump into" the man who runs the leather business. He hands you a spring of mint (the smell is nauseating and the mint does little to alleviate this) he then brings you in and out of places showing the process of making leather and finally to a leather shop where all the goods are sold. At this point I would say that the goods are all looking good and there is plenty of choice. However by this time I have had enough of the constant harranguing and efforts to get you to buy something. In a forthright way, I said I am leaving to get some lunch. On leaving the premises my partner's hands over 20 Durham to thank the man (the leather owner man) to thank him for his time. This is not enough, so the offer is upped to 60 Dirham. We try to stand out ground as we did not ask for this tour. At this point all three men (and more) appear saying that this is not enough. We felt like we were being held to ransom. Eventually all we had in cash, which was 200 dirham was handed over and luckily we walked away.

We found an exit out of the four walls to what looked like a derelict part of the town. Asked a taxi to bring us to our hotel which was 9 miles away (not in Marrakech ). He proceeded to drive up and down roads that were not main routes. I said that I didn't think he understood and didn't know where he was going. Lo and behold after half an hour he decided to ask another taxi to show him the way. We ended up transferring to the new taxi as he decided he didn't want to go out of Marrakech town.

So that was a breakdown of our one and only visit into Marrakech . We never went back. We felt violated and lost and way out of our depth - we are both reasonably intelligent adults who travel 3/4 times per year so we're used to different cultures etc and had even read about these kind of experiences. It was proven to be so sly and so easy to get drawn into a situation that could have ended up badly.

So apart from two bruised egos and a new fear of overcrowded market places with lots of alleyways, we survived.

However, that being said we will never return to Marrakech even though we didn't experience the Square, the palace or any of the other attractions that we had wanted to visit. No thank you. I am more than happy with you...

🇲🇦 🇲🇦 🇲🇦 The Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakech is an architectural masterpiece and a significant historical and cultural landmark in Morocco, considered one of the most famous madrasas in the Kingdom. Its Origins and Development: Marinid Foundation: The initial core of the madrasa dates back to the Marinid dynasty, built by Sultan Abu al-Hasan al-Marinid in 1346 CE (747 AH). Saadian Renovation: The madrasa, in its current form, was renewed and rebuilt by the Saadian Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib (who reigned from 1557 to 1574 CE). Its construction was completed between 1564 and 1565 CE (972 AH). The Saadian renovation preserved the original Marinid architectural style. Its Historical and Cultural Significance: An Ancient Educational Hub: For four centuries, the Ben Youssef Madrasa served as a stronghold for scholars and a destination for students eager to acquire knowledge in various sciences, especially religious and jurisprudential studies, as well as mathematics and astronomy. A "Student Residence" for Scholars: Lessons were not held within the madrasa itself but in the adjacent Ben Youssef Mosque. The madrasa functioned as a "university residence" in the modern sense, comprising 132 rooms for students to review their lessons, while the prayer hall was used for religious duties. An Artistic Architectural Landmark: The madrasa is distinguished by its architectural harmony and exquisite ornamentation, serving as a record of Moroccan art during the Marinid and Saadian eras. Its construction and decoration utilized luxurious materials such as cedar wood from the Atlas Mountains, Italian marble, intricately carved plasterwork, and colorful zellij (tilework). A Global Tourist Destination: After ceasing its educational role, the madrasa was transformed into a tourist attraction and an archaeological marvel, drawing visitors from all over the world to enjoy its authentic architectural beauty and learn about its rich history. It underwent a comprehensive restoration process in recent years, which helped restore its splendor and increase its popularity. In summary, the Ben Youssef Madrasa in Marrakech is not merely an old building; it is a symbol of the flourishing Moroccan civilization throughout the ages and a testament to the importance of science and art in...

A Timeless Gem of Islamic ArchitectureStepping into Madrasa Ben Yousef is like entering a sanctuary of tranquility and awe-inspiring beauty amidst the bustling streets of Marrakesh.

As I crossed the threshold of this ancient Islamic school, I was immediately struck by the intricate geometric patterns, ornate stucco carvings, and delicate mosaic tilework that adorned every inch of its walls and ceilings.

The courtyard, with its grand arched entrance and tranquil reflecting pool, exuded a sense of serenity that transported me back in time to the golden age of Islamic scholarship. I couldn't help but marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating this architectural masterpiece, which served as a center for learning and spiritual contemplation for centuries.

Wandering through the tranquil corridors and sunlit chambers of Madrasa Ben Yousef, I felt a deep sense of reverence for the scholars and students who once walked these hallowed halls, studying subjects ranging from theology to mathematics. Each alcove and alcove seemed to whisper secrets of the past, inviting me to ponder the mysteries of time and knowledge.

As I ascended to the rooftop terrace, I was rewarded with panoramic views of the medina and the distant Atlas Mountains, a breathtaking reminder of Marrakesh's timeless allure.

Surrounded by the soothing sounds of birdsong and the gentle rustle of palm trees, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such beauty and tranquility in the heart of the city.

A visit to Madrasa Ben Yousef is not just a journey through history; it's a spiritual and aesthetic pilgrimage that will leave you with a deep appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Marrakesh and the enduring legacy of Islamic art and architecture. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler seeking moments of serenity and inspiration, Madrasa Ben Yousef is a must-visit destination that will leave an indelible impression...