Admire the artistry and soak up the hushed atmosphere of reverence and studiousness at Ben Youssef Madrasa, once the largest center of Islamic learning on the continent. Founded in the 14th century as a complementary institution to a nearby mosque, the school underwent various refurbishments and changes over the years until closing in 1960. Opened to the public in 1982, the center still maintains its studious calm and ageless charm, its central courtyard decorated with wooden carvings and marble mosaics. The site contains many fine, ornamental entryways and arches, covered with geometric shapes and inscriptions from the Quran. For Ben Youssef Madrasa and beyond, use our Marrakech trip planner to get the most from your Marrakech vacation.
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Ben Youssef Madrasa reviews
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We visited here on our last day in Marrakech and what an interesting place. Beautiful architecture and at one time housed over 900 students. It not a massive place so allow an hour or two to explore..... more
We visited here on our last day in Marrakech and what an interesting place. Beautiful architecture and at one time housed over 900 students. It not a massive place so allow an hour or two to explore..... more »
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Lovely building with wonderful, detailed cedar carvings on the walls and doors. It's easy to imagine the noise of the students who lived and attended the madrassa.
Lovely building with wonderful, detailed cedar carvings on the walls and doors. It's easy to imagine the noise of the students who lived and attended the madrassa. more »
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Very cool place. Although small, the hand-carved ornaments are so detailed and prevalent throughout the main space that you get lost figuring out every stroke. It's also nice taking pictures inside the little rooms in the upper floors. Highly recommended.
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Low entrance fee, guide available but not necessary. The architecture and tile work was amazing! You don't need to budget too much time for this, since most of the rooms are basically the same...the second level is all small sleeping rooms.
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