Ben Youssef Madrasa

Marrakesh

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DESTINATIONS morocco marrakech Do & See Ben Youssef Madrasa

Ben Youssef Madrasa

Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa is an old Koranic school, built in the 14th century. It housed up to 900 students at its peak, and it was one of the largest theological schools in North Africa. It closed down in the 1960s but opened again in 1982 as a public sight. Even though the building looks modest on the outside, the inside will amaze you with its intricate beauty.

Useful Information

Address: Rue Souk el Khemis, Marrakesh
More Info: medersabenyoussef.com
Opening House: Daily 9am–6pm
More Info: Just off Rue Souk el Khemis
More Info: https://www.facebook.com/medersabenyoussef/

Do & See

The city is split into two dramatically different areas, each a testament to a distinct period in Moroccan history. First, there's the ancient Medina, a labyrinthine quarter established almost a millennium ago by the Almoravids. Then, in stark contrast, is the Ville Nouvelle, born out of early 20th-century French colonial ambitions and modernist ideals. But it's the Medina — particularly its bustling central square, Jemaa el-Fna — that truly kindles the imagination.

El Badi Palace

Constructed in the 16th century under the orders of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur of the Saadian dynasty, El Badi Palace — the "Incomparable Palace" — was once hailed as a marvel of its era. Initially featuring 360 rooms, an expansive courtyard, and a 90-metre-long pool, the palace was a monument to the Sultan's affluence and …

Highlights of Marrakech: Private Half-Day City Tour

Highlights of Marrakech: Private Half-Day City Tour

Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Marrakesh as you embark on a city sightseeing tour. Visit the top highlights, including the Majorelle Gardens, the Berber Museum, Koutoubia Mosque, and the Medina. While you explore, your guide provides context on the history of Morocco as well as the local …

Koutoubia Mosque & Minaret

Koutoubia Mosque & Minaret

Erected in 1120, the Koutoubia Mosque and its 70-metre-tall Minaret serve as the spiritual and architectural heart of Marrakesh, framed by expansive gardens. Situated in the southwest area of Marrakesh's medina, close to the bustling Jemaa el-Fna marketplace, the mosque is not just the city's largest but also one of its most iconic. Although …

Jemaa el-Fna

Jemaa el-Fna, the vibrant epicentre of Marrakesh's medina, is a riot of colours, sounds and scents, especially at sunset. Though the square has transitioned from its roots as a daily food market for mountain traders, its hustle and energy remain palpable. During the day, vendors offer refreshing fruit juices, but it's at dusk when …

Atlas Mountains & Three Valleys Day Trip

Atlas Mountains & Three Valleys Day Trip

Step away from the hustle and bustle of Marrakech to witness the impressive Atlas Mountains and traditional Moroccan life. Explore broad valleys and lush orchards with views of Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Ride a camel through a broad gorge, pause for tea in Imlil Valley, then hike to the isolated village …

Majorelle Garden

Majorelle Garden

When the chaos of the city becomes too much for you to handle, the one-hectare botanical Majorelle Garden is a perfect refuge. Stroll in the shade of the palms and watch beautiful plants, fountains and birds and when you're tired you can sit down at the garden café. The iconic Villa Oasis — the private …

Royal Mansour Marrakesh Hammam Spa

Royal Mansour Marrakesh Hammam Spa

A trip to a hammam is an essential Marrakesh experience for rejuvenating both body and spirit. Berbers have honed their skincare rituals for centuries to keep their skin radiant in the harsh desert climate. Relish the bliss of a cleansing session with black olive soap, hair care, and thorough scrubbing with exfoliating mitts. For a …

Bab Debbagh Tanneries

Bab Debbagh Tanneries

Witnessing the age-old craft of leather treatment at the Bab Debbagh tanneries is a fascinating experience. Situated near a river for water supply, these tanneries have been operating for centuries. The distinctive odour, resulting from ammonia used in the leather-softening process, will let you know you've arrived. Unlike some other Moroccan tanneries, the focus …

Souks

Step into the sensory whirlwind that is Marrakech's sprawling labyrinth of souks. Known as Morocco's largest and among the world's most exotic marketplaces, they offer a feast for the senses — vibrant colours, intoxicating aromas, and the ceaseless hum of haggling. While the thrill of the hunt and the art of bargaining are all …

Menara Gardens

Dating back to the 12th century, the Menara Gardens offer a serene oasis, enveloped by olive trees and framed by the Atlas Mountains. Initially developed by Abd al-Mu'min, a ruler of the Almohad Caliphate, the gardens hold the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site since …

Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs stand as an opulent tribute to the Saadian dynasty. Originating from the 16th century, the site was envisioned by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur as a monumental homage to his lineage. Found within the aged Kasbah Mosque, the tombs are divided into multiple sections, each boasting a collection of chambers festooned with ornate …

City Walls

The iconic walls of Marrakesh, stretching over 12 km, are more a statement of aesthetic grandeur than a fortification for defence. Originally erected in the early 12th century by the city's Almoravid founders, the walls have undergone several expansions, including the notable addition of the Kasbah to the south and later extensions towards the …

Ben Youssef Madrasa

Ben Youssef Madrasa

Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa is an old Koranic school, built in the 14th century. It housed up to 900 students at its peak, and it was one of the largest theological schools in North Africa. It closed down in the 1960s but opened again in 1982 as a public sight. Even though the building …

House of Photography

House of Photography

This museum, located in the heart of the city, shows the history of Morocco through 3,500 photographs taken between 1870 and 1950. From the rooftop, one of the highest in the area, you can enjoy the beautiful view while eating a light …

Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Yves Saint Laurent Museum

Inaugurated in 2017, the Yves Saint Laurent Museum is an architectural marvel featuring a captivating blend of curves, straight lines, and intricate patterns, all rendered in brick. Located conveniently near Majorelle Garden, the museum houses exhibition spaces, an auditorium, and a library. Showcasing the pivotal works of the iconic French designer, the museum also …

Cactus Thiemann

Cactus Thiemann

At 17 acres and over 150 varieties of cacti, Thiemann is the biggest cactus farm in the whole of Africa. The farm was founded by a German agricultural engineer who wanted to expand beyond growing cacti in grow house conditions and thus came to Morocco in the 60s. Today, you can admire his life's …

Oasiria-Amizmiz Waterpark

Oasiria-Amizmiz Waterpark

For a fun and cooling escape from the city's hustle and bustle, consider heading to Oasiria-Amizmiz Waterpark. Offering a blend of water slides and pools, as well as laid-back lounge spaces in shaded areas, it's an ideal spot for family-friendly relaxation. With a plethora of slides, a wave pool, and even a lazy river, this …

Royal Golf Marrakech

Royal Golf Marrakech

Golf is considered a royal sport in Morocco and in the area of Marrakesh you find several courses at which to play. The oldest one — Royal Golf Marrakech — is from 1933, but there are also more modern clubs to choose …

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