The Koutoubia Mosque
Of Marrakech’s mosques, the Koutoubia Mosque boasts the tallest minaret, the graceful tower finding its place in the city’s skyline. The iconic tower was constructed during the the 12th century rule of Sultan Moulay Yacoub al-Mansur. When the minaret was added, the mosque had to be rebuilt so that it would be oriented to Mecca and worshippers could bow toward the holy city. Situated about a three minute walk from the bustling Jemaa el-Fna square, the mosque is still in use, and so it’s closed to the public in general. But people are able to get in and see its pretty architecture from the outside. The attention to detail in the design of the minaret is really something to behold, particularly at sunset when the sun shines on the sandstone walls, bathed in the warm golden light, which is to be seen – whilst in Marrakech. The tower is seventy seven meters high and visible through the previous city. The Koutoubia Mosque has inspired many magnificent towers, like t...