Ben Youssef Mosque is the oldest mosque in Marrakech, Morocco. It was founded in the 12th century by the Almoravid ruler Ali ibn Yusuf, who named it after his father Yusuf ibn Tashfin. The mosque was rebuilt and enlarged several times over the centuries, most notably by the Saadian sultan Moulay Abdallah al-Ghalib in the 16th century and by the Alaouite sultan Moulay Slimane in the 19th century. The mosque is located in the medina of Marrakech, near the Ben Youssef Madrasa and the Marrakech Museum.
The History of Ben Youssef Mosque
The mosque was originally built in 1121 by Ali ibn Yusuf, who expanded Marrakech and made it the capital of the Almoravid empire. The mosque was intended to be a symbol of his power and piety, as well as a place of worship and learning for his subjects. The mosque was designed by the renowned architect Abu Bakr ibn Umar al-Hajjaj, who also built the Koutoubia Mosque and the Tin Mal Mosque. The mosque had a large courtyard, a prayer hall with 13 naves, a minaret, and a library.
The mosque was destroyed in 1147 by the Almohads, who conquered Marrakech and replaced the Almoravids. The Almohads rebuilt the mosque on a smaller scale, using some of the original materials. The mosque remained in use until the 16th century, when it was renovated and enlarged by Moulay Abdallah al-Ghalib, who added a new minaret, a dome, and a fountain. The mosque became one of the most important religious and educational centers in Marrakech, attracting scholars and students from all over Morocco and beyond.
The mosque underwent another major restoration in the 19th century by Moulay Slimane, who repaired the damage caused by an earthquake in 1755. He also added a new entrance, a clock tower, and a sundial. The mosque continued to serve as a place of worship and learning until 1960, when it was closed to the public due to its poor condition. The mosque was reopened in 1982 after a comprehensive restoration project that restored its original appearance and features.
The Architecture and Decoration of Ben Youssef Mosque
The mosque is a fine example of Moroccan Islamic architecture and art. It combines elements from different styles and periods, such as Almoravid, Almohad, Saadian, and Alaouite. The mosque has a rectangular plan with a large courtyard surrounded by arcades. The courtyard has a central fountain for ablutions and a sundial on one of its walls. The prayer hall has 16 naves perpendicular to the qibla wall, which faces Mecca. The qibla wall has a mihrab, which is a niche that indicates the direction of prayer. The mihrab is decorated with carved plaster and zellij tiles that form geometric and floral motifs. The prayer hall also has a dome over the central nave, which is supported by four columns. The dome is covered with green tiles and has an inscription from the Quran around its base.
The minaret is located at the northwest corner of the mosque. It is 40 meters high and has four levels. The minaret has a square base and an octagonal shaft. It is topped by a lantern with three small domes. The minaret is decorated with carved plaster and zellij tiles that form geometric patterns. The minaret also has four clocks on its sides, which indicate the time of prayer.
The mosque is also known for its library, which was one of the oldest and largest in Morocco. The library had thousands of manuscripts and books on various subjects, such as theology, law, history, medicine, astronomy, and mathematics. The library was located in a separate building next to the mosque. It had two floors and several rooms with shelves and cabinets. The library also had a reading room with desks and lamps.
How to Visit Ben Youssef Mosque
If you want to visit Ben Youssef Mosque, here are some tips and recommendations:
- The mosque is open to Muslims only for prayer five times a day. Non-Muslims can visit the exterior of the mosque and admire its architecture and decoration from outside.
- The mosque is located in the medina of Marrakech, which is a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys. You can either walk or take a taxi to get there. If you walk, you can enjoy the atmosphere and charm of the old city, as well as discover other attractions nearby. If you take a taxi, make sure to agree on the fare before you get in.
- The mosque is close to the Ben Youssef Madrasa and the Marrakech Museum, which are both worth visiting. The Ben Youssef Madrasa was a former Islamic school that is now a museum. It is one of the most beautiful and impressive buildings in Marrakech, with its stunning courtyard, prayer hall, and student cells. The Marrakech Museum is housed in a former palace that showcases the history and culture of Marrakech and Morocco. It has a collection of artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and textiles.
- The mosque is also near the souks, which are traditional markets that sell everything from spices and carpets to jewelry and pottery. You can browse and shop for souvenirs, or just enjoy the colors and smells of the stalls. You can also try some local delicacies, such as couscous, pastilla, and harira.
For the Tourist: Tips for a Memorable Visit
Respect the Sacred:
Remember, the Ben Youssef Mosque is a place of worship. Non-Muslim visitors are not permitted inside, but the exterior and surrounding areas offer plenty to admire.
Nearby Attractions:
Don’t miss the Ben Youssef Madrasa, an architectural gem right next to the mosque. The Almoravid Koubba and the Dar Bellarj cultural center are also worth a visit.
Dive into History:
To truly appreciate the mosque’s significance, consider hiring a local guide. Their insights into the mosque’s history and Marrakesh’s evolution will enrich your experience.
Best Time to Visit:
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Why You Should Visit Ben Youssef Mosque
Ben Youssef Mosque is more than just a place of worship. It is a place of history and culture. It represents the legacy of the dynasties that ruled Marrakech and Morocco for centuries. It also represents the intellectual and spiritual life of Marrakech, which was a center of learning and innovation in the Islamic world. By visiting Ben Youssef Mosque, you will discover a historic and cultural treasure that will enrich your experience in Marrakech.