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.
Frequently asked questions
Can you go inside the Koutoubia Mosque?
No. Like all mosques in Morocco, the prayer hall is closed to non-Muslims. You admire the minaret and mosque from outside, and the surrounding gardens are free and open to everyone.
Can women or tourists enter the Koutoubia?
The prayer hall is reserved for Muslim worshippers (men and women). Non-Muslim visitors enjoy the exterior and the gardens.
Is there an entrance fee for the Koutoubia?
No. It is free to see from the outside, and the gardens are free to enter.
How tall is the Koutoubia minaret?
About 77 metres. It was the model for the Giralda in Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.
How old is the Koutoubia?
It dates from the 12th century, built by the Almohad dynasty.
How do you pronounce Koutoubia?
Roughly “koo-too-BEE-ya.”