Koutoubia Mosque

Overview

The Koutoubia Mosque is Marrakesh's most iconic landmark, its 77-metre minaret dominating the skyline. Built between 1147 and 1199 under the Almohad dynasty, it is the largest mosque in Marrakesh and a masterpiece of Moorish architecture.

Highlights

• The Minaret: Standing 77 metres tall with four copper globes. Its 1:5 ratio became the template for the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.
• Gardens: The surrounding rose and orange gardens provide the best vantage for photographing the tower.
• Evening illumination: The minaret is lit at night, visible from across the medina.

History

The Almohad Sultan Yacoub el-Mansour commissioned the mosque, replacing an earlier Almoravid structure. Legend claims the golden orbs were donated by the wife of Sultan Yacoub, who melted her jewellery as penance.

Visitor Tips

• Non-Muslims cannot enter: The exterior and gardens are freely accessible.
• Best photo spot: Gardens to the west catch golden light at sunset.
• Duration: 15–30 minutes.