medersa ben youssef marrakech morocco
Table of Contents
Last October, I explored Marrakech’s Ancient medina. The streets were full of life spice merchants, motorbikes, and shopkeepers. But then, I found a hidden doorway to Medersa Ben Youssef, my favorite spot in Morocco.
I’d heard about this Islamic college, but nothing prepared me for the calm inside. The medina outside was chaotic, but the medersa was peaceful. It’s a hidden gem that shows its beauty to those who enter.
The Historical Significance of Medersa Ben Youssef
Medersa Ben Youssef was built in the 14th century and rebuilt in the 1560s. It’s a key part of Morocco’s history. For nearly four centuries, it was the largest Islamic college in North Africa. Students lived in small cells around the courtyard. I imagined them studying the Quran by oil lamp at night. It was a time of deep learning and dedication.
The medersa closed in 1960 but reopened for visitors. After renovations from 2018 to 2022, it’s now a stunning architectural treasure.
Architectural Marvels That Leave You Breathless
Medersa Ben Youssef’s craftsmanship is unmatched. The courtyard has a reflecting pool that mirrors the cedar wood balconies and zellige tilework. Morning light made it magical.
The prayer hall is a masterpiece. Every surface is decorated:
- Cedar wood carvings on the ceilings
- Zellige tile mosaics in blues and greens
- Stucco walls with Arabic calligraphy
- Marble columns with carved capitals
Islamic art focuses on patterns and calligraphy, not figures. This results in beautiful, spiritual designs.
I spent an hour in the courtyard, watching the patterns change. It was a peaceful experience.
Visiting Medersa Ben Youssef: Practical Information for 2025
Planning a trip to Marrakech in 2025? Here’s what you need to know about Medersa Ben Youssef: It’s in the medina, near the Marrakech Museum and Jemaa el-Fna Square. Use maps.me for offline navigation.
It’s open from 9am to 7pm daily. Arrive early or late to avoid crowds. I had peace at 9:15am. The entrance fee is 100 MAD (about $10 USD). It’s a great deal for this experience.
Medersa Ben Youssef: A Must-See in Marrakech
Guided Tours: While not essential, hiring a guide can significantly enrich your visit by explaining the historical and cultural context of what you’re seeing. Official guides can be arranged at the entrance for around 200 MAD for a one-hour tour. Just make sure your guide has an official badge I made the mistake of going with an unofficial guide once in Fez and regretted it!
Dress Code: As with most historical religious sites in Morocco, modest dress is appropriate. While not as strictly enforced as at active mosques (where non-Muslims typically cannot enter anyway), showing respect through your clothing choices is appreciated. I wore lightweight linen pants and a loose top with short sleeves, which was perfectly acceptable while keeping me cool in the Marrakech heat.
Photography: Photography is permitted throughout the medersa, and the light conditions are absolutely dreamy for photos. The best lighting in the courtyard is typically in the morning when the sun creates beautiful patterns through the latticed windows. Just be mindful not to disrupt other visitors with excessive photo-taking.
When to Visit Marrakech and the Medersa
Timing your visit to Marrakech can make a huge difference in your experience. The best time to visit Marrakesh is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when temperatures are pleasant and tourist crowds are manageable.
I visited in late October and found it to be perfect—warm enough during the day for lightweight clothing but cool enough in the evenings to enjoy rooftop dinners without sweating. The medersa, with its thick walls, remains relatively cool even during warmer months, but summer temperatures in Marrakech can soar above 100°F (38°C), making extensive sightseeing challenging.
If you’re planning a broader Morocco itinerary, check out this guide on the best time to visit Morocco to plan your trip optimally.
Beyond the Medersa: Creating a Perfect Marrakech Itinerary
While Medersa Ben Youssef might be my personal favorite, it’s just one jewel in Marrakech’s crown. To make the most of your visit, consider combining it with these nearby attractions:
- The Marrakech Museum – Located just steps away from the medersa in a converted palace, it houses an interesting collection of Moroccan arts and crafts.
- The Almoravid Koubba – The oldest building in Marrakech, dating back to the 12th century, it’s just around the corner from the medersa.
- The Saadian Tombs – Another architectural marvel featuring stunning decorations similar to those in the medersa.
- Koutoubia Mosque – While non-Muslims cannot enter, the exterior of this iconic mosque is worth admiring.
- Jardin Majorelle – For a complete change of pace, visit these stunning gardens once owned by Yves Saint Laurent.
One afternoon, after visiting the medersa, I wandered through the souks and stumbled upon a tiny rooftop café with a perfect view of the Atlas Mountains in the distance. That impromptu mint tea break, with the sounds of the call to prayer echoing across the medina, remains one of my most cherished Morocco memories. Sometimes the unplanned moments become the highlights of your trip!
For a more extensive exploration beyond Marrakech, consider a day trip to the Ourika Valley, where you can experience the beauty of the Atlas Mountains and traditional Berber villages.
Cultural Context: Understanding the Role of Medersas
Visiting Ben Youssef is more meaningful when you know about medersas. Unlike Western universities, Islamic education started in mosques and these colleges.
“Medersa” means “study” in Arabic. These places focused on religious studies like Islamic law and the Quran. Students started at 12 and studied for up to 10 years.
Students woke early for prayers and studied all day. They worked part-time to support themselves. Their living spaces were small, with just enough room for sleep, study, and a few belongings.
The medersa’s design was educational. The tilework showed math and cosmic harmony. The calligraphy on walls inspired students with Quranic verses and poetry.
Safety and Cultural Considerations
Many ask, “Is Morocco safe?” Marrakech, including the medersa area, is generally safe for tourists. Petty theft and aggressive vendors are more common than danger.
Inside the medersa, the atmosphere is calm and respectful. But in the medina streets, you might meet “guides.” Saying “La shukran” (no thank you) politely works if you don’t want their help.
As a female traveler, I faced some unwanted attention. But dressing modestly and walking confidently helped. For more tips, see these Morocco travel tips.
My Personal Reflection: Why Medersa Ben Youssef Stands Out
What makes Ben Youssef special? It’s the mix of grand architecture and personal spaces. Unlike some places, it still feels like a place of learning.
Sitting in the courtyard, I thought about all the students who studied here. Their lives were different, yet we share the quest for knowledge.
The medersa is a place of calm in a busy city. Its design encourages reflection and peace. It’s a place that calls me back, even after two visits to Morocco.
Planning a trip to Morocco? See this ultimate guide or this travel guide for advice on everything from getting there to understanding the culture.
I hope you’ll visit Medersa Ben Youssef. Sit in the courtyard and let history envelop you. It’s a moment you won’t forget.