Marrakech
Marrakech-Safi, Morocco
An exotic time capsule of ancient streets and souks, blending Arab culture and French colonial heritage. Soak it all up in the wonderfully evocative atmosphere of the Jemaa el-Fnaa.
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Medersa Ben Youssef
Last updated: 27 May, 2023
This splendid former medersa (a Koranic school where students memorise the Koran) was founded by the Merenid Sultan Abou el Hassan in the 14th century. However, it was under the Saadian rulers in the 1560s that the school was renovated to the extraordinary level that visitors can marvel at today.
The Andalusian architectural details, such as the stucco plasterwork featuring Arabic inscriptions and the colourful mosaics, are wonderfully preserved and worth taking time to appreciate.
Logistics
Price from: £4
Minimum age: Any
Age suitable: 18+
When: All year around
Getting there & doing it
While the merdersa can be visited independently (like most of Marrakech’s sites), you’ll get more out of the experience with some commentary on the site. If you do wish to use a guide, you’ll find them waiting outside the gate, all with a more than adequate knowledge.
When to do it
It’s open all year round, seven days a week. No matter what time of year you visit, avoid the crowded middle of the day.
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