Madrasa Ben Youssef
Historical landmark · Marrakech ·

Madrasa Ben Youssef

Historical landmark · Marrakech ·

Islamic college: intricate tilework, carved wood, historic beauty

intricate detail
architectural heritage
historical landmark
beautiful architecture
islamic design
moroccan craftsmanship
crowded
tourists
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by Photo by Isidoro Ruiz / age fotostock
Madrasa Ben Youssef by Photo by Isidoro Ruiz / age fotostock
Madrasa Ben Youssef by Photo by Isidoro Ruiz / age fotostock
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null
Madrasa Ben Youssef by null

Information

Rue Assouel, Marrakech 40000, Morocco Get directions

Wheelchair accessible entrance

Information

Static Map

Rue Assouel, Marrakech 40000, Morocco Get directions

+212 5243 84112
medersabenyoussef.ma
𝕏
@mdrsabenyoussef

Features

•Wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Jan 23, 2026

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How to Spend 3 Days in Marrakesh, Morocco

"A 14th-century former Islamic college that stands as one of the finest examples of Moroccan craftsmanship, notable for white stone floors, intricately carved wooden windows, glittering mosaic pools, geometric tile patterns, and plaster walls carved with elegant swirling designs." - Asia London Palomba Asia London Palomba Asia London Palomba is a trilingual Italian writer from Rome, currently based in Boston. As a writer, Asia focuses on food, travel, and history, and has covered everything from the best travel products to bring on a trip India to medieval judicial duels. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines

https://www.travelandleisure.com/three-days-in-marrakech-morocco-8753342
Madrasa Ben Youssef
@afar
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"A historic 14th-century Islamic college offering rich architectural detail and cultural insight into the city's educational and religious heritage." - John Wogan

https://www.afar.com/magazine/hotel-concierge-recommendations
Madrasa Ben Youssef
@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"Morocco's Most Breathtaking Koranic School Inscribed above the door of the Ben Youssef Medersa in Marrakech reads the following: “You Who Enter My Door May Your Highest Hopes Be Exceeded.” It is an appropriate proclamation for what is arguably the most mind-blowing example of Islamic design and architecture within a Koranic school anywhere in the country. Founded in the 14th century, it was embellished by the Saadian dynasty in 1570withan ornate bronze doorway, elegant stuccoes, and a marble-tiled patio lined with elaborate mosaics. The prayer room, with its palm and pine cone motifs, looksdown into the courtyard from the students’ quartersandgives a splendid helicopter view of the space. During its heyday, the medersa had room for up to 900 students; it was given over to the city as a museum in the 1960s and has remained so ever since."

The Best Things to Do in Marrakech
Photo by Isidoro Ruiz / age fotostock
Ibn Youssef School
@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"Morocco's Most Breathtaking Koranic School Inscribed above the door of the Ben Youssef Medersa in Marrakech reads the following: “You Who Enter My Door May Your Highest Hopes Be Exceeded.” It is an appropriate proclamation for what is arguably the most mind-blowing example of Islamic design and architecture within a Koranic school anywhere in the country. Founded in the 14th century, it was embellished by the Saadian dynasty in 1570withan ornate bronze doorway, elegant stuccoes, and a marble-tiled patio lined with elaborate mosaics. The prayer room, with its palm and pine cone motifs, looksdown into the courtyard from the students’ quartersandgives a splendid helicopter view of the space. During its heyday, the medersa had room for up to 900 students; it was given over to the city as a museum in the 1960s and has remained so ever since."

The Perfect Day in Marrakech
Photo by Isidoro Ruiz / age fotostock
Ibn Youssef School
@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"Morocco's Most Breathtaking Koranic School Inscribed above the door of the Ben Youssef Medersa in Marrakech reads the following: “You Who Enter My Door May Your Highest Hopes Be Exceeded.” It is an appropriate proclamation for what is arguably the most mind-blowing example of Islamic design and architecture within a Koranic school anywhere in the country. Founded in the 14th century, it was embellished by the Saadian dynasty in 1570withan ornate bronze doorway, elegant stuccoes, and a marble-tiled patio lined with elaborate mosaics. The prayer room, with its palm and pine cone motifs, looksdown into the courtyard from the students’ quartersandgives a splendid helicopter view of the space. During its heyday, the medersa had room for up to 900 students; it was given over to the city as a museum in the 1960s and has remained so ever since."

The Perfect Weekend in Marrakech
Photo by Isidoro Ruiz / age fotostock
Ibn Youssef School

brent B.

Google
Once a bastion of learning in the region ,this amazing building has been restored to it's original glory. Light plays across the magnificent tiled walls and floors in each space. Small rooms fill the structure where students once studied various subjects. In the courtyard a beautiful water feature lies central to magnificent decorations sweeping the wall and door entrances. At the top of the multistory structure you can watch a film documenting the restoration of the building. The entrance fee is reasonable and queing at the time of our visit was not excessive.

Brittany D

Google
This is an historical landmark intended to preserve Marrakech’s architectural heritage. It is a beautiful site. I got there at 9:30am on a Friday and entered with ease and no wait. I suggest going early to beat the crowd around 10:30am. I paid 50 MAD to get in, which is reasonable (about $5 USD). There’s a lot of incredible and intricate work that went to preserving/revitalizing this building. You can get through it in an hour. I suggest getting a tour if you want to dig deep into the cultural and historical significance of the site. It’ll be a richer experience with that context. There are a few checkpoints with video in various languages for you to learn more about the building’s days as an educational institution.

Neno.O

Google
Benyoussef Madrasa is a must-visit in Marrakech—rich in history, culture, and architectural beauty. Truly unforgettable. From the moment you step inside, you’re surrounded by some of the most detailed and beautiful architecture you’ll ever see. The intricate carvings, colourful zellige tiles, and delicate stucco work show an incredible level of craftsmanship and attention to detail. Every corner feels like a piece of art, making it a dream spot for photos and quiet admiration. This historic Islamic college once housed students from all over Morocco, and you can really feel the sense of history as you walk through the courtyards and small student rooms. The central courtyard, with its calm atmosphere and stunning symmetry, is especially impressive. A top tip: go early in the morning to avoid the crowds. It gets very busy later in the day, and visiting early allows you to fully enjoy the beauty and take photos without too many people around.

jon-paul B.

Google
Certainly worth a visit if you’re in the area. Absolutely stunning architecture and is immaculately clean if you take the garbage tour at least they will tell you exactly what you’re looking at otherwise try and find a handwritten guide well worth it.

M N.

Google
Visiting the Madrassa Ben Youssef was an incredible experience. The architecture is absolutely stunning, with intricate details and peaceful courtyards that reflect the rich Islamic and Moroccan heritage. Walking through the madrassa feels calm and contemplative, offering a glimpse into centuries of history, learning and spirituality. A must-see landmark in Marrakech and one of the most impressive historical sites in Morocco.

Weronika D.

Google
Great place to see — we ended up spending much more time here than expected. It’s fascinating to walk through and really feel like you’re stepping back in time within the old school’s walls. It does get very crowded, so keep that in mind, but it’s still absolutely worth a visit.

cranio C.

Google
Lovely place to visit. Lots of tourists. We were able to find a seat in the sunshine and enjoy the palace and the detail of the craftsmanship. You have to pay to enter around 5 euros and the toilets charge on top.

Justin M

Google
Nice and pretty, but we went here after 2 weeks in Morocco, seeing so many beautiful roads, medrassaz, etc. that by the time we got to this one, it wasn’t as stunning as we thought it would be. If you are staying in Marrakech and are not exploring much of the country, this is a must see. If you have see lots of beautiful Moroccan architecture, you can probably make this a quick 30 mins stop like we did. Beautiful building nonetheless. They took cash only, no card. We were out of MAD, and they took our EURO instead 5 EUR each instead of 50 MAD.