The Koutoubia Mosque

The Koutoubia Mosque, carved out of brick and red stone, is the largest mosque in Morocco and towers over the central square, Jemaa El Fnaa. The melodic call for prayer originating from The Koutoubia Mosque is probably the first sound that you will hear in Marrakech. Over the course of your visit, this sound will get inextricably intertwined with your perception of Marrakech as a city. Of course the mosque is of great religious significance to those who practice Islam. But to most tourists, it provides the perfect point of reference while exploring the souks of Marrakech and a show of impeccable Moroccan craftsmanship
The name of the mosque ‘Koutoubia’ derives from the profession of booksellers who used to practice their trade at the base of the mosque. The central minaret of the mosque is the most impressive part of the building. Non-muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque but do not let that deter you from exploring the complex. The entire complex is lit with floodlights at night, which makes for an impressive photograph.