Koutoubia Mosque
You cannot come to Marrakech without seeing this magnificent work of architecture The Koutoubia Mosque stands out in the center of the town and is renowned as one of the greatest sights in Morocco. Every tourist who visits the Moroccan city considers it an essential destination to see in Marrakesh.
The mosque was erected in the twelfth century by the Almohads and is best known for its spectacular minaret reaching up almost 77 meters high. The architectural masterpiece has since been a source of inspiration for numerous world renowned Islamic edifices including well-known mosques throughout Spain and the whole of North Africa.
In modern times, tourists who visit Marrakech appreciate the mosque, walking along its delightful gardens, and observing the buzzing of activity in the surrounding vicinity. For lovers of history, culture or photography, Koutoubia Mosque is an unforgettable sight. . Enjoy our top morocco tour pacakges
The Rich History of Koutoubia Mosque
Koutoubia Mosque’s history stretches back over 800 years to the time when Marrakech was once of the most powerful cities in the Islamic world. It was commissioned in 1147 by the Almohad ruler Abd al-Mu'min when he conquered Marrakech and later took it over.
Koutoubia literally means the book sellers’ in Arabic, coming from the namekutubiyyin. Back in the days of the medieval Islamic world, the area around the Koutoubia Mosque used to be a place for manuscript traders, and book markets which makes it a very significant site of Moroccan learning and knowledge.
The current structure was built in two stages because the first building did not stand accurately facing Mecca and had to be rebuilt at another orientation, making it one of the finest works of Almohad architecture. The minaret of Koutoubia Mosque (around 77 metres in height) served as a precedent for later minarets such as Giralda in Spain and Hassan Tower in Rabat.
Walking round the mosque it feels like a trip back to history, where you are given a great feel of Moroccan design, craftsmanship, faith and culture.
Why is Koutoubia Mosque One of the Most Famous Tourist Attractions of Morocco
The Koutoubia Mosque is a must visit on any Morocco holiday and it is ranked as one of the most famous attractions in Marrakech because of its religious value, the architectural beauty and the atmospheric presence.
The exterior design of the Koutoubia Mosque is breathtakingly beautiful and traditionally Moroccan, with it's red sand stone exterior making it blend in with Marrakech’s colours as they are known as the red city, the geometrically patterned windows, elegant arches, detailed ceramics and geometric carvings make it a visually stunning monument both day and night.
A key part of visiting the mosque are the gardens which surround it. Decorated with palms, fountains, roses and shady pathways you can escape the bustling Moroccan streets that surround the mosque and sit down and relax whilst taking in the sight of this amazing mosque and at sunset this is at its best, with the mosque illuminated by gold coloured light from the sun.
For photography enthusiasts it is a photographer's heaven, and this can be said from when the mosque is lit up in the dark with the deep Moroccan sky, and is considered one of the best photographic spots in the whole of Marrakech. You may find lots of travelling photographers who flock to the mosque during golden hour and at night to get the best shot of the mosque.
The mosque also provides perfect opportunities for combining your trip with other popular tourist attractions that lie just a few minutes walk away. These range from the popular lively markets found in the Medina, experiencing authentic Moroccan food and drinks from the traditional souks, or relaxing with a tea in Jemaa el-Fnaa.
The best time to visit the Koutoubia Mosque:
The best time to visit the Koutoubia Mosque is spring and autumn (March – May) and September-November, during which time in Marrakech the weather is warm but not scorching and you can freely walk through the gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque.
Mornings offer a more quiet visit, with better lighting to get photographs and is highly recommended, however the evenings also have their own charm as the Koutoubia Mosque looks very attractive illuminated against the Moroccan skyline, making it a romantic location for visitors of the mosque.
The prayer room at the Koutoubia Mosque is off limits to non-Muslims however the outside of the mosque offers stunning photographic opportunities and fantastic places to sit and rest. During religious holidays like Eid el-fitr or if travelling during Ramadan there will be increased crowds due to its holy status and extra preparations taking place in Marrakech, and the immediate vicinity.
Travel tips for visiting Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech
It is of great importance to dress modestly when visiting holy and cultural sites in Morocco, so remember to take light clothes which cover your knees and shoulders, even during warmer times of the year. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended in the Medina, as the streets can be crowded and best explored on foot.
Always bring a camera or a mobile phone so that you can take photos at every opportunity of this remarkable mosque, as it makes for excellent photography during day and night time especially at sunset when the golden light can create some amazing effects. Hiring a local guide can be very beneficial to add stories and history behind the mosque and Marrakech and you can easily find them within the Medina area.
Why not try and grab a quick cup of coffee in one of the traditional cafes, have a bite to eat from a traditional food stand that’s situated very close by or stroll through the many shops within the traditional Medina that surrounds the Koutoubia Mosque to get a feel for Moroccan life. When you combine a visit to this mosque with other nearby sights like the Medina of Marrakech, or a trip to the popular square of Jemaa el-Fnaa, you will definitely leave with some wonderful memories of Marrakech and Moroccans. Whether you're on a luxury Morocco holiday or taking a cultural city break it should certainly be on your list for a trip to Morocco.