Koutoubia
Mosque built in the XIIth century, the Koutoubia is distinguished by its remarkable minaret.
Over time, the Koutoubia Mosque has become emblematic of Marrakech. Its construction was decided in 1158 by the sultan Almohades Abdel Moumen soon after his conquest of Marrakech. Its construction ended in 1199 with the construction of its famous minaret ordered by the little son of Sultan Yacoub el Mansour. Koutoubia, literally the "Mosque of the booksellers' in Arabic, is named after the many merchants of books and manuscripts that set up their stalls in the immediate vicinity of the building from 12 ° -13 ° century.
Koutoubia occupies the place of an ancient palace Almohavide and was built after the destruction of the first mosque whose orientation was not facing Mecca. This jewel of Moorish art consists of 16 devices naves and a central nave wider proportions. Its luxurious almoravide inspired décor is magnified by a certain sobriety.
The minaret of the Koutoubia inspired the architects of the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat. This square tower in finely worked stone rises to a height of 77 meters, taking into account his lantern. An internal staircase gives access to rooms covered with domes as well as the top. The upper facades of Koutoubia are decorated with ceramic tiles forming different ornaments on each side.
Access to the mosque is reserved for Muslims. Western tourists must
Simply admire the minaret and can see a brief overview of the splendor of the Koutoubia Mosque by the gateway.
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