+91-8929175340
The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest and most iconic mosque in Marrakesh, Morocco. It stands tall at the heart of the city and is an essential landmark for both locals and visitors. With its beautiful 12th-century architecture, detailed stonework, and a towering 77-meter minaret, the mosque is a symbol of Islamic heritage in Morocco. The name “Koutoubia” comes from the Arabic word for bookseller, as there used to be a market of book merchants around the mosque in earlier times.
Koutoubia Mosque is more than a religious building—it is a symbol of Marrakesh’s spiritual and architectural history. The mosque has influenced the design of other famous structures like the Giralda in Seville, Spain, and the Hassan Tower in Rabat. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque itself, the exterior and surrounding gardens make it a popular destination for all visitors.
The Koutoubia Mosque is located in the Medina of Marrakesh, just a few minutes' walk from the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square. Here are a few ways to reach it:
Marrakesh enjoys a hot, semi-arid climate. Weather around the Koutoubia Mosque is generally sunny and dry:
The Koutoubia Mosque is open for Muslim prayer five times a day, following the Islamic prayer schedule. However, **non-Muslims are not permitted to enter the interior** of the mosque. This policy is consistent across most mosques in Morocco.
The **exterior grounds and gardens** surrounding the mosque are open to all visitors throughout the day. There is **no entry fee** for walking around the mosque or enjoying the public spaces. Early morning and evening are the best times to visit to avoid the midday heat and enjoy beautiful lighting for photography.
Koutoubia Mosque is famous for its majestic minaret, which towers 77 meters high and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city. Built during the 12th century under the Almohad Caliphate, it represents one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in North Africa. The minaret is adorned with decorative arches, stone carvings, and traditional motifs, making it a landmark of both spiritual and artistic importance.
Its influence extends far beyond Morocco. The design of the Koutoubia minaret inspired the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat, showing the cultural and architectural connections between Islamic Spain and North Africa.
The Koutoubia Mosque was built in the 12th century during the reign of the Almohad caliph Abd al-Mu’min. Construction began around 1147 and was completed a few decades later. Interestingly, the original mosque was slightly misaligned with Mecca, so a second mosque was built adjacent to it with the correct alignment.
Architecturally, the mosque reflects traditional Almohad style. The building is made from red sandstone and features a large prayer hall, multiple arches, and a beautifully decorated minaret. The minaret is square-shaped and topped with a spire and copper globes. It is said to contain a ramp inside wide enough for a horse to climb to the top, where the muezzin calls to prayer.
Surrounding the mosque are tranquil gardens filled with palm trees, flowers, and fountains—providing a peaceful place for reflection or rest.
The Koutoubia Mosque is one of Marrakesh’s most important landmarks—both historically and culturally. Its striking minaret, peaceful gardens, and central location make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to the city. Even though non-Muslims cannot go inside, the mosque offers plenty to admire and experience from the outside. Whether you’re interested in architecture, history, photography, or simply soaking in the atmosphere of old Marrakesh, the Koutoubia Mosque is a place that truly embodies the spirit of Morocco.
