Medersa Ben Youssef

Medersa Ben Youssef, a historic Islamic school in the heart of Marrakech, Morocco, is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in architecture, history, and culture. This stunning building, once the largest Islamic school in North Africa, offers a glimpse into the rich past of Morocco and its Islamic heritage. With its intricate tile work, beautifully carved wooden doors, and serene courtyards, Medersa Ben Youssef is a place that will leave you in awe.

History of Medersa Ben Youssef

Medersa Ben Youssef was built in the 14th century by the Marinid Sultan Abu Inan Faris. However, it was during the reign of Sultan Abdullah Al-Ghaleb Assaadi in the 16th century that the madrasa was significantly expanded and transformed into the magnificent structure it is today. The madrasa accommodated over 900 students and served as a place of learning, prayer, and study. It was abandoned in the 18th century but was restored in the 19th century by Sultan Moulay Hassan I and reopened as an Islamic school. After being closed for restoration from 2018 to 2022, it was reopened to the public in 2022.

How to Get to Medersa Ben Youssef

Medersa Ben Youssef is located in the heart of Marrakech’s old Medina. The easiest way to get there is by walking from Jemaa el-Fna square, which takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a short taxi ride or join a guided tour that includes transportation.

Attractions at Medersa Ben Youssef

1. Main Courtyard: The central courtyard is the heart of the madrasa, featuring a large shallow reflective pool and beautifully symmetrical architecture.
2. Prayer Room: The prayer hall is adorned with rich stucco decorations and a mihrab (indicating the direction of prayer towards Mecca).
3. Student Rooms: The dormitory cells are arranged around the central courtyard and mini Riads, showcasing the living and studying conditions of the students.
4. Intricate Tile Work and Wooden Doors: The madrasa is renowned for its stunning tile work and intricately carved wooden doors, which add to its architectural beauty.

Ticket Information

The entrance fee to Medersa Ben Youssef is 50 MAD (approximately 5 USD) for foreign adults and 10 MAD (approximately 1 USD) for children under 12 years old. If you have a Moroccan ID card, the entrance fee is just 20 MAD (approximately 2 USD).

Tips for Visiting Medersa Ben Youssef

1. Visit Early: To avoid the crowds, it is recommended to visit the madrasa early in the morning.
2. Dress Respectfully: While there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to dress conservatively to respect local traditions.
3. Bring Local Money: Ensure you have enough local currency to pay the entrance fee.
4. Explore Thoroughly: Spend at least an hour exploring the madrasa to fully appreciate its beauty and historical significance.
5. Capture Memories: The madrasa offers fantastic photo opportunities, so arrive early to capture the best shots without the crowds.

Medersa Ben Youssef is a place that will transport you to a fascinating era where art, knowledge, and culture flourished. Its stunning architecture and rich history make it a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Marrakech.