The Koutoubia Mosque is Marrakech's great landmark — the 12th-century minaret that towers over the medina and doubles as everyone's navigation point. For expats it's the building you orient by daily, and a calm green space right beside the chaos of Djemaa el-Fna.
What you're looking at
Built under the Almohads in the 12th century, the Koutoubia's 77-metre minaret is a model of the era's architecture; its "sisters" are the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat. The name comes from the booksellers' market that once stood here. The mosque itself is closed to non-Muslims, but the exterior and the surrounding gardens are open to everyone.
Visiting as a resident
It sits just southwest of Djemaa el-Fna, an easy landmark to walk to from anywhere in the medina. Non-Muslims view it from outside; the palm-lined gardens are a pleasant, free place to sit, and it's especially photogenic at dusk when the minaret is lit.
Good to know
- Non-Muslims can't enter; enjoy the exterior and gardens.
- Dress modestly out of respect near the mosque.
- The gardens are free and a good rest stop off the square.
- The minaret was reported cracked in the 2023 earthquake but still stands.
Related
- Living in Morocco — the full expat guide
- Marrakech — living in and around the city
- Djemaa el-Fna — the main square, right next door