Ben Youssef Madrasa Marrakech: The Most Beautiful Courtyard in the Medina
The Ben Youssef Madrasa is a former Koranic school in the northern Marrakech medina, rebuilt in the 1560s under the Saadians and once home to over 100 students. Its marble courtyard with a reflecting pool, carved cedar and stucco is one of the most beautiful interiors in Morocco. Visits take about 45 minutes; go early or late in the day for photos without crowds.
History
A madrasa (medersa in French) is a college where students studied the Koran, law and sciences. The site takes its name from the nearby Ben Youssef Mosque, founded by the Almoravid sultan Ali ibn Yusuf in the 12th century. The building you see today was largely constructed under the Saadian sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib in the mid-16th century. It functioned as a school until the 1960s, then was restored and opened to the public; a major restoration was completed around 2020.
What to see
- The central courtyard: a rectangular pool reflects walls covered with zellige tiles at the bottom, carved stucco in the middle and cedar wood at the top.
- The prayer hall: with a richly decorated mihrab and a cupola of carved cedar.
- The student cells: about 130 small rooms on two floors around inner courtyards, showing how simply students lived.
- Inscriptions: Arabic calligraphy runs along the walls, mixing Koranic verses and dedications.
Nearby sights
- The Almoravid Koubba: one of the rare Almoravid buildings left in Marrakech, a small domed pavilion from the 12th century.
- The Marrakech Museum (Dar Menebhi): a 19th-century palace with exhibitions and a stunning covered courtyard.
- Le Jardin Secret: a restored riad garden five minutes away.
- The souks: the leather, dyers' and metalworkers' souks are just south.
Practical tips
- Opening hours are usually 9:00–18:00 or 19:00 depending on the season; tickets are paid in dirhams.
- Arrive at opening time or in the last hour for a calm courtyard.
- The lanes around the madrasa are confusing; a guided medina walk saves time and explains the architecture.
- Combine with souk shopping: read our souk shopping guide first.
Add it to day two of our 3-day Marrakech itinerary and see more ideas in things to do in Marrakech. For architectural background, see Wikipedia's Ben Youssef Madrasa article.
Book it with a local operator
- Marrakech: Medina Guided Walking Tour with Bahia Palace & Souks — from €25 per person, pay on the day.
- Marrakech: Moroccan Cooking Class with Local Market Visit & Lunch — from €45 per person, pay on the day.
Related guides
- Le Jardin Secret Marrakech: A Hidden Islamic Garden in the Medina
- Best Museums in Marrakech: Art, Crafts, Photography and Fashion
- Saadian Tombs Marrakech: What to See, Tickets and How to Avoid the Queue
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ben Youssef Madrasa open to visitors?
Yes. It reopened after restoration and is open daily to visitors, with an entrance fee payable in dirhams.
How long do you need at the Ben Youssef Madrasa?
About 45 minutes to see the courtyard, prayer hall and student cells.
What is a madrasa?
A madrasa is a traditional Islamic college where students studied the Koran, law and other subjects, often living in small rooms on site.
What is near the Ben Youssef Madrasa?
The Almoravid Koubba, the Marrakech Museum, Le Jardin Secret and the northern souks are all within a few minutes' walk.
Main photo: DimiTalen, Wikimedia Commons, CC0.
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