Koutoubia Mosque
Marrakech's Iconic 12th-Century Almohad Masterpiece
Minaret Height
69 metres (77 m with finial) — the tallest landmark in Marrakech.
Gardens Open
The Koutoubia Gardens are free and open to all visitors.
Essaouira Awaits
Special Deals!
About
The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech and one of the finest examples of Almohad architecture in the world. Built in the 12th century under the Almohad Caliph Abd al-Mu'min, its 69-metre sandstone minaret has dominated the city skyline for over 850 years and served as the model for the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.
History Of Koutoubia MosqueGallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Can non-Muslims enter the Koutoubia Mosque?
No — the Koutoubia is an active place of worship and the interior is reserved for Muslims. Non-Muslim visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, admire the exterior architecture, and enjoy views of the iconic minaret from all sides.
Is the Koutoubia Mosque free to visit?
The Koutoubia Gardens and the views of the minaret are completely free and open to everyone. There is no entrance fee for the exterior grounds.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Sunset is the most popular time — the sandstone minaret glows amber and the gardens fill with a relaxed atmosphere. Sunrise is quieter and also offers beautiful light. Midday can be very hot in summer.
How tall is the Koutoubia Minaret?
The minaret is 69 metres tall (77 metres including the copper finial and its four golden spheres). No building in Marrakech is permitted to rise above it, making it the tallest structure in the city.
Why is it called the Koutoubia?
The name comes from the Arabic 'kutubiyyin', meaning booksellers. A large open-air book market once operated in the area around the mosque during the 12th century.