Koutoubia Mosque – The Icon of Marrakech
The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest and most famous mosque in Marrakech, Morocco. Located near the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square, its majestic minaret towers over the city at 77 meters (253 feet) high, making it a symbol of Marrakech’s skyline and a masterpiece of Almohad architecture.
Built in the 12th century during the reign of the Almohad Caliph Abd al-Mu’min, the Koutoubia Mosque is named after the “kutubiyyin” (booksellers) who once sold books in the nearby souk. The mosque features classic Moorish design, with horseshoe arches, intricate stonework, and a grand courtyard. Its minaret, decorated with beautiful geometric patterns and topped with four copper globes, served as a model for other famous towers such as the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.
Though only Muslims can enter the mosque itself, all visitors can enjoy the serene surroundings. The Koutoubia Gardens offer a peaceful escape from the busy medina, with palm trees, fountains, and benches where you can relax and take in views of the mosque and its minaret. At night, the mosque is beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
Thanks to its height and central location, the Koutoubia Minaret can be seen from many parts of Marrakech, serving as a helpful landmark for navigating the medina. Whether you’re admiring it from afar or walking around its gardens, the Koutoubia Mosque is an essential stop to understand the religious and architectural heritage of the city.
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