Koutoubia Mosque: The Jewel of Marrakesh
Explore the grandeur of Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakesh's largest and most iconic religious site, showcasing stunning Almohad architecture.
Koutoubia Mosque, an architectural masterpiece, is the largest mosque in Marrakesh and a significant landmark of the city. Its stunning 77-meter tall minaret, intricately designed with beautiful carvings and vibrant tiles, is a sight to behold, especially when illuminated at night. Constructed in the 12th century, it serves as a prime example of Almohad architecture, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Morocco. The mosque is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of Marrakesh, attracting countless visitors and photographers eager to capture its beauty. Surrounding the mosque is a serene garden, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets of the Medina. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, enjoying the lush greenery and the calming sounds of fountains, making it an ideal spot for reflection and relaxation. While non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque, the exterior view is captivating enough to warrant a visit. The nearby area is bustling with local shops and cafes, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of the city while enjoying some refreshments. Koutoubia Mosque is best visited in the early morning or late afternoon, when the lighting is perfect for photographs and the crowds are thinner.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for stunning light and fewer crowds.
- Take your time to explore the surrounding gardens for a tranquil experience.
- Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the minaret and surrounding architecture.
- Respect local customs; non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque but can enjoy the exterior.
- Combine your visit with nearby attractions for a full day of exploration in the Medina.
A brief summary to Koutoubia
- Marrakesh, Medina, 40000, MA
- +2125244-33407
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Gueliz, head east on Avenue Mohammed V. Continue walking straight until you reach the intersection with Avenue Hassan II. Turn left onto Avenue Hassan II and walk until you reach the famous roundabout known as Place de la Liberté. From there, proceed straight towards the Medina. As you approach the Medina, you will see the Koutoubia Mosque's minaret rising above the buildings. Follow the signs that lead you towards the mosque. It should take around 20-25 minutes to walk from central Gueliz to Koutoubia.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in Gueliz. Once you have your bike, head east on Avenue Mohammed V, then take a left onto Avenue Hassan II. Cycle towards Place de la Liberté, and from there, continue straight into the Medina. The Koutoubia Mosque is easily visible as you approach it. The bike ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes depending on your cycling speed.
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Taxi
If you're looking for a quicker option, consider taking a taxi. You can hail a petit taxi in Gueliz. Simply tell the driver 'Koutoubia' or 'Mosquée Koutoubia.' The ride should take around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around 20-30 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD) for the fare. Make sure to agree on the price before starting your journey or ensure the meter is on.
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Public Transport
While Gueliz has limited public transport options directly to Koutoubia, you can take a bus to the Medina. Look for bus stops along Avenue Mohammed V and find a bus heading towards the Medina. The fare is typically around 4 MAD. Get off at the nearest stop to Koutoubia. From there, it’s a short walk towards the mosque, which should take around 5-10 minutes.
Attractions Nearby to Koutoubia
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Museum of La Koutoubia
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Minaret de la Koutoubia
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Kubba Fatima Zohra
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Parc Lalla Hasna
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Dar Moulay Ali, Maison de France in Marrakech
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Calèches Jemaa El-Fnaa
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Atlas Mountain Tour
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Parc de Jemaa El Fnaa
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Neartrips
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Mausolee Youssef bin Tachfine
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Hop in Morocco
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Marrakech Quad Biking Tour
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Marrakech Desert Tour
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Local Guide Marrkaech
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Riad Palais Sebban
Landmarks nearby to Koutoubia
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Mezquita
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Ruines de l'ancienne mosquée almoravide
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Medina and Souks Walking Tours: By Marrakech Behind The Walls
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Jardin Sidi Mimoun
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Visit Toubkal
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Palais Arabe
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Marrakech Desert Tours
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Moroccodreamsland
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Morocco Cheap Travel Desert Trips From Marrakech
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Cyber Park
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Sahara Tours Morocco
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3 Days desert tour from Marrakech-Morocco Easy Tours
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Marrakech WITH Locals
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Go Sahara Tours ( Morocco Tours from Marrakech )
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Marrakech Outdoor Trips