Ben Youssef Medersa
The city of Marrakech offers brilliant color, exotic smells and flavors, and an inimitable environment that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. A visit to the old fortified city is like stepping back in time, and many of the ancient buildings have remained virtually unchanged for centuries.
One of the most amazing places in the city is Ben Youssef Medersa. This stunning ancient structure near the heart of the Medina is an Islamic school attached to the Men Youssef Mosque. It was once the largest Koranic school in all of North Africa, with up to 900 students enrolled at one time. Each student enrolled in the school would memorize the Koran by rote by the time they completed their studies.
The Ben Youssef Medersa is home to some of the most stunning art and architecture in the city. The school itself was founded by the Merenid Sultan Abou el Hassan in the 14th century; however, the current structure was rebuilt in the 16th century by Sultan Abdullah el Ghallib.
Similar to the Saadian tombs, the Ben Youssef Medersa is a prime example of Saadian design. Every surface, from the rose colored walls to the towering columns, are covered in the intricate decorations of the time period. The tile work throughout the structure is vibrant and stunning. The stucco molding features elaborate carvings of traditional Islamic calligraphy.
There are 130 dormitory cells (where students once resided), surrounding a peaceful courtyard filled with elaborate carvings in marble, cedar and stucco. It may be interesting to note that in all the carvings and painting throughout the Ben Youssef Medersa, there are no depictions of humans or animals. The school was built according to Islamic standards, thus the carvings and tile work consist entirely of calligraphic inscriptions and geometric shapes and patterns.
The Arabic inscriptions throughout the building are truly beautiful. They are carved into the stucco and picked out in zellij tiles. The most common inscription is the bismillah prayer “In the name of Allah, the Compassionate, the Merciful.”
Make sure to visit the prayer hall toward the back of the building for especially elaborate examples of this décor. The full interior of the prayer hall is decorated with a pine cone and palm motif.
When you visit the Ben Youssef Medersa, you can join a tour with one of the many on-site guides. Most visitors recommend striking out and exploring on your own. This will allow you to go at your own pace as you take in the sights and relax in the peaceful atmosphere.
The Ben Youssef Medersa is open daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. There is an admission fee, however, it’s very affordable at only $5 or $6 per person.
This the perfect place to come with friends and family to get to know a little bit more about one of the most important religions in the history of the world, along with a truly magnificent temple while exploring Morocco.
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