A must-see in Marrakech: the Koutoubia Mosque


During your stay in Marrakech, Restaurant Le Foundouk invites you to discover the Koutoubia Mosque, just a 20-minute walk from the restaurant.
 

The mosque: the emblem of Marrakech


Under the rule of the Berber dynasty of the Almoravids, Marrakech was fortified and saw the birth of one of the country's most important monuments to this day: the Koutoubia Mosque.

It is also known as the "Booksellers' Mosque" because of the many sellers of books and manuscripts who set up shop around it at the time.

Its 77-metre-high minaret makes it the tallest mosque in Morocco.

The Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech is both functional and, above all, architecturally remarkable.

The religious edifice is adorned with meticulous details and delicate ceramic decoration. It has also been the model for many mosques in Morocco and North Africa.

In the 1990s, the building underwent a complete restoration to bring back all its beauty to this symbol of the city.
 

The different elements to admire at the Koutoubia Mosque


Once you're in Marrakech, make sure you don't miss out on any of the highlights of this unique monument. Visitors can admire several highlights of the site:

The minaret
This is the first feature of the mosque.

It is magnificently decorated with geometric motifs and Arabic calligraphy on its 77-metre high façade. The minaret offers a panoramic view of Marrakech's medina.

The architecture of the monument
Founded centuries ago, the mosque is of classical Islamic design.

It features pointed arches, domes and marble columns.

Every detail is important and bears witness to the craftsmanship of the Almohad period.

The garden around the Koutoubia Mosque in the Lalla Hasna Park
It's a pleasure to stroll through this peaceful setting and enjoy the spiritual and serene atmosphere of the place.

Fountains have been installed to cool off on hot days.


Practical information


Less than 2 kilometres from Le Foundouk restaurant, the Koutoubia mosque in Marrakech is open every day of the week from 9am to 6pm. Admission is free for everyone.

Please note that there are several points to bear in mind:
  • Access to the interior of the mosque is restricted to Muslims during prayer. You can only see the monument from the outside
  • Animals are not allowed in the Koutoubia mosque
  • As with all places of worship in Morocco, you are requested to wear proper clothing and behave in a manner respectful of Muslim rites.