NEED TO KNOW
LOCATION Marrakech, in central Morocco
DATE OF CONSTRUCTION
1150–90
HEIGHT 220 ft (67 m)
PURPOSE Mosque tower from which the call to prayer is issued
The beautiful Koutoubia Minaret adjoins the largest mosque in Marrakech, and is the oldest of the world’s three remaining Almohad-dynasty minarets. The mosque had to be rebuilt soon after completion because it did not align properly with Mecca, but the minaret was able to remain in its original form. The stately minaret became an influential model for other towers in the Moorish world, including the Hassan Tower mausoleum in Rabat, and the Giralda in Seville, Spain. Construction commenced shortly after the Almohad conquest of Marrakech in 1150 and was completed during the reign of Sultan Yacoub el-Mansour. The minaret is topped with 4 copper balls, one of which was a gift from the wife of the Sultan as penance for breaking her fast during Ramadan.
Practical Information
Getting There and Around The minaret is in central Marrakech overlooking Djemaa el Fna square, 15 mins by taxi from Marrakech-Menara Airport.
When to Go Marrakech is sunny all year round. The weather is at its best in spring, early summer, and fall, without extremes of temperature. Only Muslims are allowed access to the mosque and minaret.