Mosque

Al-Koutoubia Mosque

Marrakesh, MA

Marrakesh 40000, Morocco

The Al-Koutoubia Mosque (also spelled Koutoubia) is the largest mosque in Marrakesh, Morocco, and one of the most important landmarks of the city. Its name derives from the Arabic 'al-Kutubiyyin', meaning 'booksellers', as the mosque was historically surrounded by bookshops. Built in the 12th century during the Almohad dynasty, the mosque is famous for its 77-meter (253 ft) minaret, which served as a model for the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat. The minaret is decorated with intricate geometric patterns and topped with a spire and orbs. The mosque can accommodate up to 20,000 worshippers and features a large prayer hall, a courtyard with fountains, and beautiful gardens. It remains an active place of worship and a major tourist attraction.