Madrasa Ben Youssef image

Madrasa Ben Youssef

Tourist attraction Historical landmark

One of the Most Revieweds in arrondissement de Marrakech-Medina مراكش المدينة


Address

Rue Assouel, Marrakech 40000, Morocco

Website

medersabenyoussef.ma

Contact

+212 5243-84112

Rating on Google Maps

4.60 (4.7K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Thursday: 9 AM to 7 PM
  • Friday: 9 AM to 7 PM
  • Saturday: 9 AM to 7 PM
  • Sunday: 9 AM to 7 PM
  • Monday: 9 AM to 7 PM
  • Tuesday: 9 AM to 7 PM
  • Wednesday: 9 AM to 7 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: building (32) visit (29) architecture (28) beautiful (22) Marrakech (17) worth (17) rooms (12) Marrakesh (11) Islamic (10) Moroccan (9)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jacklyn S. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful, beautiful building!!!! So glad I could make this stop, and it was just as lovely as I was expecting it to be. Great angles and views to capture amazing pictures. Photographers playground for sure! A must see while in Marrakech and cheap ticket to get in.
    15 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Patrick B. 3 months ago on Google • 437 reviews New
    This is a beautiful building. I would recommend getting here either early or late to avoid the crowds. It's a visual feast. There are some great videos showing the restoration process. It's not as ornate as some of the Arabic palaces as it was a school but it's still hugely impressive and worth visiting
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Koel G. 4 months ago on Google • 801 reviews
    The intricate details of the Islamic art and design in this ancient educational institution were awe-inspiring. The serene courtyard and ornate tiles reflected the craftsmanship of a bygone era. Navigating the narrow corridors revealed a rich cultural tapestry that left me immersed in the mystique of Marrakesh's past. The preservation of this historical gem makes it a must-visit for those seeking a profound connection with the city's heritage. Avoid the morning rush hours if you want to take pictures

  • 5/5 Dawn L. 1 year ago on Google
    Low entrance fee, guide available but not necessary. The architecture and tile work was amazing! You don't need to budget too much time for this, since most of the rooms are basically the same...the second level is all small sleeping rooms.
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lulu S. 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely architecture. Entry was 50dirhams per person and not too expensive. No queues. Was no hassle buying tickets then and there. Large open spaces outside and the rooms inside are very similar to each other but it's just fascinating looking at the beautiful building and if you're in Marrakech then you must go see this, it is stunning.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lucas B. 1 year ago on Google
    Very cool place. Although small, the hand-carved ornaments are so detailed and prevalent throughout the main space that you get lost figuring out every stroke. It's also nice taking pictures inside the little rooms in the upper floors. Highly recommended.
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hassan R. 1 year ago on Google
    One of the most beautiful places I’ve visited. Just to sit there knowing it was a great centre of learning is just breath taking. I’d recommend to go a bit later as you’ll have more opportunity to take great pictures. Entry fee is 20 dirham. There is also a lovely shop next door, don’t buy anything it’s too expensive
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Pete M. 5 months ago on Google
    Amazingly beautiful place to visit. If you get there at the right time of day, the way the sun hits the pool in the courtyard, is breathtaking. A must visit in Marrakech. Tickets are inexpensive, and the staff is very kind. It’s not terribly easy to find, but worth the visit.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sonia 7 years ago on Google
    The beautiful architectural work and the Arabic calligraphy work is all that drags a person at first place to enter the madrassa. A college for Islamic education, this madrassa is an icon of Marrakesh, a must visit place. There is no dress code to enter the madrassa, however, to respect the religious restrictions one should wear conservatively.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Sarah Z. 2 years ago on Google
    still closed for renovations as of 29th August 2021. Local guides unsure of re-opening date. The surrounding area is still stunning and has museums and gardens very close by. worth a visit.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Az-eddine Ben J. 2 years ago on Google
    Wonderful architecture and amazing mosaic. It's worth
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Rachel W. 4 months ago on Google
    Paid 50MAD each to get in. Worth A look around, but not much to see. Lots of little rooms and balconies. The wall carvings are pretty and the tiles are beautiful. We probably did it in about 20 minutes.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Billy X. 1 year ago on Google
    Easily the most stunning and beautiful architecture that I’ve seen in Marrakech and definitely one of the best ever. The ticket is cheap (50) and it is not overcrowded by tourist groups like the other gardens or palaces. I spent quite some time just sitting in the square marveling at the elaborate and exquisite carvings and mosaics on the wall. The low reviews are from people who visited during the closure. It is easily the must see in the city.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Umar 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful school in the heart of Marrakesh. Entrance is a bit difficult to find but it is right along the streets in the market. A must see when you go to Marrakesh
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Grigoris G. 1 year ago on Google
    16th century university of theology with 2 levels and various chambers. The courtyard is breathtaking with its pool, enclosed by beautifully sculpted walls. The entrance fee is only 20 mad and honestly you get a lot for your money.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Abdelmoughite El M. 2 years ago on Google
    One of the most historical and Islamic monument that every tourist should visit. It's located in the heart of Marrakech Medina and very close to numerous bazars (in case you're intending to buy some traditional products linked to the Moroccan culture). I really recommend visiting this place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Simon R. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful main outdoor area inside the walls. Decorations are extremely meticulously detailed. Other than the main area, the building is not very interesting; pray hall is nice, and some inside decorations are also beautiful, but a lot of small rooms mostly. Gets a 3/5 because you have to pay for the toilet, even though you already pay 50 MAD for access to the museum.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cesar A. 2 years ago on Google
    Looks like I was very lucky because the place was closed the last three years by restorations, but the day I've been there, was opened. So beautiful building, incredible architecture.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hana M. 11 months ago on Google
    Beautiful place to visit! It is even more impressive when noticing the attention to detail in geometric patterns and carvings at this scale! Must visit if you are in Marrakech. I would go early, although the place is so big that it didnt feel too crowded even in the afternoon.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Federico F. 6 months ago on Google
    I had the pleasure of visiting a stunning Moroccan building recently, and I must say, it left me in awe. The architecture was a true masterpiece, with intricate mosaic tiles adorning every surface and ornate archways that transported me to a different time. The attention to detail in every corner of this building was remarkable, and it showcased the rich cultural heritage of Morocco. It was a truly unforgettable experience that allowed me to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of Moroccan architecture.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Tolga “guidetolga” G. 2 months ago on Google • 133 reviews New
    Very nice museum. Historical building in Marrakech. Best of museum about Umayyad period's wood - tile - stone artcraft work. With large pool nice view in photos. Need 30 - 60 minutes for visit. Maximum 10 minutes wait for tickets. Ground and 1st floor need visit
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Simon H. 1 month ago on Google • 234 reviews New
    Stunning building, very overcrowded but great decor and enough rooms to occasionally find one to yourselves. Would have been wonderful to study and stay there. No queue but entry fee charged (cash only). Spent two hours there.

  • 5/5 Adrian S. 2 months ago on Google • 199 reviews New
    This is one of the top 10 things to see in Marrakech. It was a university originally however you have to visit this building and it's landscape. The architecture on this building is amazing. Extremely historical and very nice photographs and videos can be taken here. I would highly recommend a visit to this place. Tickets were 100 Dirhams per person approximately 10 per person. There are toilet facilities in here and you would spend at least 1 hour and half if you want to enjoy and take nice photographs. It is located very close to the Medina about 10 minute walk or 5 minutes if your fast walking.

  • 5/5 sara i. 10 months ago on Google
    Gorgeous building and very well kept. With beautiful calligraphy on the walls and ceilings, fabulous architecture, and calming and inspiring atmosphere, I would definitely recommend a visit. The only recommendation I have would be some signage to explain what each room is as you enter it.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mustan B. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing architecture and engraved woodwork. Fascinating place to visit. Over 900 students lived and studied in this building. Lucky ones got a room with a decent view of the central courtyard and fountain. Unlucky students got tiny, dark, windowless rooms.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 B D. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely stunning piece of traditional Moroccan architecture and a must visit during your trip to Marrakech. You can easily spend 1-2 hours here (more if your trying to get the perfect Insta shot, there will be many!) Being popular tourist attraction, it gets very busy so be prepared!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Katharina D. 8 months ago on Google
    Sehr schöner Ort! Der Eintritt liegt bei 50 MAD und ist es auch wert! Man sollte nur so bald wie möglich gehen, sonst hat man immer Touristen im Bild.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Marco R. 7 months ago on Google
    Marvelous work was done to bring this old building to the modern age, and it was well worth it. The intricate details of all the various decorative pieces make the price of admission of 50dh worth a visit. The inside is laden with hand carved and sculpted designs with the same shapes as it once had and it's a wonder to see and admire.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Agrippina B. 7 months ago on Google
    Amazing architecture and history. We learnt so much about Islam and how they practice it during their times in this particular place from our own guide. The whole place is neat, clean, beautiful and unexpexted.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ricardo C. 1 year ago on Google
    A real gem. One of the best attractions Marrakech has. If you admire architecture, this place it is a must
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Martine B. 6 years ago on Google
    A beautiful 16th-century college building and courtyards decorated with tiles and carved wood. Located in the heart of Marrakech and an absolute must visit. Take your time exploring the upstairs hidden nooks. Afternoon is the perfect light for great photographs
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bruno Rodríguez A. 1 year ago on Google
    A beautiful madrasa, recently renovated. Reminded me of La Alhambra and other examples of intricate Muslim architecture. It's 50 mad per person for the entry, and while it's small, it's worth the visit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Simo A. 2 years ago on Google
    The Ben Youssef Madrasa is an Islamic madrasa (college) in Marrakesh, Morocco. Functioning today as a historical site, the Ben Youssef Madrasa was the largest Islamic college in Morocco at its height. The madrasa is named after the adjacent Ben Youssef Mosque founded by the Almoravid Sultan Ali ibn Yusuf (reigned 1106-1142). Today's madrasa building was commissioned by the Saadi (or Saadian) Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib, following a style established during the earlier Marinid period.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Hicham Ait el b. 1 year ago on Google
    Gorgeous architecture a school (madrasa) building with prayer hall & courtyards decorated with tiles & carved wood WhatsApp +212670803031 I’m an officially tour guide
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Mallika J. 5 months ago on Google
    To understand the place you will need a guide. What I liked was the small study rooms on the first floor. The main building was very similar to the one I visited in Fez. A good place for Instagram pictures.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matthew B. 1 year ago on Google
    An absolute highlight of my trip to Marrakesh. Stunning architecture and only 20 dirham to enter. Fairly small (it will take less than twenty minutes to see the entire building), but a must-see never the less. No signage, but guides will offer to give you a tour. Even without context, it’s a beautiful building and my favorite site in Marrakesh.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Daniel P. 2 months ago on Google • 56 reviews New
    Stunning building full of incredible artisanal craftsmanship, possibly the finest I’ve seen in Marrakech. This is brought to life by the film of the restoration project that is shown inside, it is a shame that the film isn’t subtitled in English but it isn’t a problem as it is easy to follow and understand the painstaking work that has been put into the current glory of the building. Possibly the most impressive attraction I’ve seen in Marrakech and thoroughly recommended to visit.

  • 5/5 amine a. 2 months ago on Google • 48 reviews New
    Incredible place to visit and live the vibes of ancient times of Marrakesh. Well organized site with beautiful architecture and wonderful stories hidden within this magical place. Definitely worth to be visited by tourists as well as moccan citizens.

  • 5/5 Lori M. 5 months ago on Google
    Just go. You can't really describe the beauty in words. But they show a video there at least going over the history and the craftsmanship. Honestly, words can't do it justice

  • 5/5 Ali S. 1 year ago on Google
    We didn't even know about this place until someone at the Road mentioned it to us. Ticket is 50 Dirham which is worth every penny. The sanctuary is beautiful and preserved beautifully. Every inch has detailed hand finished work. I think it's one of the must see places in Marrakesh.

  • 5/5 Amo O. 2 months ago on Google • 33 reviews New
    Historic Islamic college. You can still see the classrooms. Entrance fee when I went was 50Dh. Loved the building as it screamed cultural architecture. Wasn’t quite busy as I visited in Feb, 2024. Put this on your to visit list when in Marrakesh.

  • 5/5 Angeline Gulhaugen (. 6 months ago on Google
    We visited with a guide, which gave us an excellent opportunity to view the most interesting aspects, as well as the history of the building. It is a beautiful building, especially the interior courtyard. 50 MAD entrance fee. It's definitely worth a quick tour if you have the time.

  • 5/5 Federica M M. 6 months ago on Google
    A sanctuary and a beautiful gem of Arab architecture. The decoration is so peacefully moving and contemplative. A must see.

  • 5/5 Agustin Ignacio R. 4 months ago on Google
    Must if you are visiting Marrakesh. We went around 3PM on a Sunday and it was not so crowded. You can buy the ticket directly there and there is no much queue usually. The place is absolutely awesome.

  • 5/5 Yesenia Q. 4 months ago on Google
    A unique place worth to visit. The ancient building is exceptionally well taken. The architecture is very detailed and patterned. As far as I have read, this place was one of the most important islamic schools and it has been standing since the XIV century. It’s highly recommended.

  • 5/5 Ian-Aël F. 4 months ago on Google
    Impressive architectural attraction in the Medina ! It is pretty touristic, but it's a place to see when coming to this city. You can do the whole thing in 20-30 minutes if you really want to visit all the small rooms (they're empty and identical). The level of detail on the walls is impressive !

  • 5/5 Fahd El H. 1 year ago on Google
    I loved the place. It is rich with history and artistic architecture. The Islamic architecture is a real wonder. It is a real beauty. I would recommend going there. You will have to take a taxi then walk to the Madrasa. The walk is not too long. I did not feel tired at all. If you are Moroccan you pay less. Do not be shy to ask for the Moroccan price, if you are Moroccan.

  • 5/5 Saona Dorado G. 6 years ago on Google
    One of the most iconic places of all Marrakech. It's full of color and as soon as you get to the outdoors in the middle your eyes don't even know we're to start staring at. I think there is a guided tour and probably will tell you a bit of story about the place(but am not sure).

  • 3/5 Dave T. 6 years ago on Google
    Just a very beautiful building which is badly dilapidated with no information points. I would guess a guided tour would have been a good idea. Parts of the building the plaster is literally peeling off the wall but the wood work in the centre courtyard and the lightwells are simply stunning

  • 5/5 Marouane C. 6 years ago on Google
    This school is definitely worth a visit when you're in Marrakech. It is nestled inside the busy medina and costs only 20dh to get in. The architecture is amazing and learning about the building and how old it is makes the experience all more special. You can also get some really amazing photos here but it's best to go early in the morning to beat the crowds and avoid people wandering into your pictures.

  • 3/5 Susana R. 7 years ago on Google
    Nice building with a great meaning and purpose, but not really too much to see. Not gardens.

  • 4/5 Mohamed H. 3 years ago on Google
    "Well worth a visit (and some decent silver shops nearby) as this place is very contemplative and cool to enjoy in the hot afternoon sun. Opening again in March 2020 after a refurb I understand - try taking a photo of your other half looking from a window across the square !"

  • 5/5 Afan �. 1 year ago on Google
    Exceptional Medersa. It's gorgeous and quick to look around. You can easily see everything in 15-30 Minutes. Don't miss out on this!

  • 5/5 Gamine 2 years ago on Google
    This is a stunning building, well worth a visit.

  • 5/5 Alam's Travel T. 1 year ago on Google
    Worth visiting, marvelous piece of moorish and Islamic art and architecture. Tickets needed approx euro 8-10. In centre of old medina . Neat , clean , well preserved and presented . Reasonable crowd .

  • 5/5 Achouaq E. 1 year ago on Google
    Amazing school it shows how great Moroccan architecture 🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦🇲🇦 Ticket 🎟️ price for foreigners: 50 dirhams For Moroccan 20 dirhams

  • 5/5 Miguel S. 1 year ago on Google
    A very good place to visit in the center of Marrakech 🕌

  • 5/5 Rosanna S. 9 months ago on Google
    Look for this place when you visit Marrakesh. Once you see one, you see most. It's a little visit to what one was the school for the Coran teachings. You get to walk the two floors and all the areas. It's very pretty and not expensive. It's about $7 to enter.

  • 5/5 Arpad R. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautifully decorated facades and interiors. The woodwork is particularly impressive. Similar to the one in Fes but more spectacular. Make sure to watch the video about the renovation of the building. Entry fee: 50 DH.

  • 5/5 Stephie K. 1 year ago on Google
    Entrance fee is 50 MAD. We didn't have to wait to get in. It's a really lovely place and in my opinion worth the money. It's so colorful and I really enjoyed exploring the place. It was not too crowded when we went there.

  • 5/5 Yolanda 10 months ago on Google
    An architectural masterpiece! Very well maintained! Besides being a refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city, it's a place with pure history. Admire with ease the calligraphy on the walls, the details of the decoration, the ceilings, the floor. Everything here is worth seeing.

  • 5/5 Ayah 10 months ago on Google
    I really enjoyed visiting here and feel it is a must-see when in Marrakech. This former Islamic school is so well-preserved and the details are simply amazing. The zellij, the chandeliers, the intricate carvings...there is really so much to discover. The place is an architectural masterpiece from top to bottom.

  • 5/5 James 7 months ago on Google
    Beautiful madrasa filled with intricate tilework and cedar ceilings. Entry is 50 MAD, but there are a lot of rooms to explore and a beautiful courtyard. One can comfortably spend half an hour walking around and admiring the architecture.

  • 4/5 H T. 7 months ago on Google
    There's an entrance fee, but it's very doable (6 Dh at the time of this review). It's essentially a school, with rooms for students. There's a nice reflection pool at the center.

  • 5/5 Saifullah K. 8 months ago on Google
    Beautiful architecture and Islamic art. Historical aspect of the place is great. We'll preserved and renovated

  • 5/5 James P. 7 months ago on Google
    We almost didn't make it here but had some time to kill on our last day. Utterly worth going. The architecture is beautiful and some of the side streets are stunning.

  • 1/5 Nick I. 7 months ago on Google
    DO NOT go to Morocco, especially if you have children. It is not safe for tourists, it us dirty and they do not have any respect to visitors. Try to keep your purse hidden and never ask for directions from locals, they will do it only fir money. Little ones will try to sell you drugs in the streets and many times follow you, even if you tell them not to.


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