Trip Planner: Africa / Morocco / Marrakech-Safi / Marrakech / Medersa Ben Youssef

Medersa Ben Youssef, Marrakech

4.2

Architectural Building · Hidden Gem · Educational Site

Admire the artistry and soak up the hushed atmosphere of reverence and studiousness at Medersa Ben Youssef, 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 Medersa Ben Youssef and beyond, use our Marrakech trip planner to get the most from your Marrakech vacation.

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Medersa Ben Youssef reviews

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9,199 reviews

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4.2

By HINAWASEEM

This 12th century Islamic School was built by the Almoravids. It is named after the son of Youssef Ben Tachfine, the founder of Marrakech. It was a fully functioning school till the 19th century. It..... more »
By Dimitris L

This is a beautiful building. It was constructed during the 16th century and served as an Islamic school. We were amazed at the wonderful architectural style, but also at the way of living in older... more »
By 539DavidB539

Great place to visit to get some history of Marrakech and some lovely architecture, great to see and get some great pictures. more »

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Google

By Mohamed Hiri

"Well worth a visit (and some decent silver shops nearby) as this place is very contemplative and cool to enjoy in the hot afternoon sun. Opening again in March 2020 after a refurb I understand - try taking a photo of your other half looking from a window across the square !"

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By Mounir Ouanaimi

The description is wrong. It was founded by the Merinids not the Almoravids. The dome edifice across the alley is the only Almoravid building remaining. This is a majestic place.

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By Ahmed ELKARTI Abidine

One of the greatest pieces of Islamic Architecture in the world. Wish I could study here like the old times!

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By Ernie Geefay

UNDER RENOVATION The fantastically preserved 14th-century former Islamic school is a fascinating representation of Moroccan design and architecture. Wander around the courtyard, inspect the ornate tiles and, if you're here early enough, bask in the tranquil silence. Make sure you take a trip upstairs to pop your head into the tiny rooms, once home to around 900 students, and then stick your head out of the wooden windows to gain an utterly new perspective on the skill involved in creating this place.

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By Omar Hamdi

The Ben Youssef Madrasa is an Islamic college in Marrakesh, Morocco. Functioning today as an Islamic historical site, the Ben Youssef Madrasa was the largest Islamic college in Morocco during its height.

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