The story — Ben Youssef Madrasa
Founded under the Marinids in the 14th century, the Ben Youssef Madrasa was rebuilt by the Saadian sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib around 1565, becoming the largest Quranic school in Morocco. It continued to welcome students until the 1960s.
At its heart lies a wide courtyard whose pool reflects walls covered in carved stucco, cedar friezes and zellige panels. On the upper floors, more than a hundred small cells once housed the students, opening onto quiet inner courts.
After extensive restoration it has regained its splendour, and it is now one of the most photographed monuments in Marrakech — an essential stop between the Marrakech Museum and the Maison de la Photographie.
Don’t miss
- The courtyard and its reflecting pool
- Student cells on the upper floor
- The carved dome of the prayer hall
- Cedar and stucco decoration
Photos
Some photos are illustrative.
