The Koutoubia Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech and the city’s defining landmark. Built in the 12th century by the Almohads, its 77-metre minaret was the model for the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.
Where is the Koutoubia and how to get there
A 5-minute walk south-west of Jemaa el-Fna — head towards the minaret, visible from the square. It is surrounded by gardens with rose beds and mountain views.
Can you go inside? Hours and entrance fee
The Koutoubia is a working mosque, and like all mosques in Morocco its prayer hall is closed to non-Muslims. There is no entrance fee: you admire it from outside, and the gardens are free and open to all.
What to see at the Koutoubia
- The minaret — pink sandstone topped with copper orbs.
- The gardens — a shaded escape from the square.
- The ruins of the first mosque — the outlines of the original beside the current one.
Best time to see it
At its best at sunset and floodlit after dark above Jemaa el-Fna.
Visit the Koutoubia and the medina with a licensed local guide
the Koutoubia and the medina rewards a little context. Our guides are officially licensed by the Moroccan authorities, speak English, French and Spanish, and meet you right on Jemaa el-Fna square — so you get the history, the symbolism and the shortcuts, without the guesswork.
- Hire a private licensed guide in Marrakech — from €20, build your own monuments route.
- Marrakech Monuments & Souks tour — a guided 3-hour walk, from €22 per person.
Book a licensed guide on WhatsApp
More Marrakech monuments
See them all in our complete guide to Marrakech monuments — with fees, hours and locations. Popular next stops: Bahia Palace · Saadian Tombs · Majorelle Garden · Ben Youssef Madrasa.
New to the medina? Start with our complete Jemaa el-Fna guide.