Ben Youssef Madrasa, Islamic college in Medina district, Marrakesh, Morocco
Ben Youssef Madrasa is an Islamic college in the Medina district of Marrakesh built around a central courtyard with a stone-rimmed pool at its center. The building holds student rooms distributed across two levels, along with spaces designed for study and instruction.
Built in 1564 by order of Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib, it grew to become the largest Islamic educational institution in North Africa. The school shut down in 1960, marking the end of nearly four centuries of continuous teaching.
The madrasa served as a center where students immersed themselves in Islamic jurisprudence and Quranic studies through daily practice and memorization. The teaching methods shaped generations of scholars who later influenced religious and legal thought across the region.
The site is accessible through the narrow alleyways of the Medina and stays naturally cool thanks to its central courtyard, especially refreshing on hot days. Wear comfortable shoes since reaching the upper floors involves climbing steep stairs.
The building preserves an ancient marble basin from Cordoba that demonstrates a connection to medieval Islamic Spain's cultural heritage. This ornate piece remains one of the most precious objects visible throughout the rooms.
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