Koutoubia of Marrakech, the great minaret swayed by the earthquake

As soon as you approach the city in your Marrakech, during your trip to Morocco, soon you will be able to see the great icon of it-

This is the minaret for the Koutoubia Mosque, which has achieved dramatic fame during the recent great earthquake that this very touristy city in the neighboring country has suffered.

The images of the Koutoubia minaret swaying, and on the verge of falling, have been among the most spectacular that have been seen during this dramatic earthquake.

When you have the chance to travel to Marrakech, once it begins to recover to a certain extent from the natural disaster suffered and reactivate its necessary tourist activity, it will be easy for you to see this minaret.

The tower of the great mosque of Marrakech can be seen from practically the entire city, and in fact, it has always been an iconic image of the city.

Where is the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque

Located on the limits of the Marrakesh medina, very close to the famous Jemaa El Fna Square, Koutoubia is great mosque of the city.

How tall is the Koutoubia Minaret?

In addition, tower minaret It is the tallest building in it with Meters 69.

And it will continue to be so, since in Marrakech it is not allowed to build any taller buildings.

Curiosities about the history of the Koutoubia Mosque

La Koutoubia Mosque Construction was initially completed in the mid-1147th century, specifically, in XNUMX, on the site where there had previously been an Almoravid palace.

But after completing the construction of the mosque, they realized that was not well oriented Mecca, so the building was demolished and a new building was built again.

From the first mosque, whose foundations can still be seen, its best-known element was preserved, the minaret.

What the Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech looks like: dimensions

The new building of the Koutoubia Mosque It was completed in 1158.

With a plant 60 meters long and 90 meters wide, this enormous mesquite has 17 naves inside.

Square in shape, and 13 meters long on each side, the Koutoubia minaret in Marrakech is an example of almohad art.

With apparent simplicity, however, it shows a careful ornamentation, which is different on each side.

Of the initial decoration, however, paintings and mosaics have been lost.

Above its dome stands out its spire with four large golden balls, which are said to have been made of gold in their day.

The interior of the Koutoubia of Marrakech Only Muslims can visit it, so you will have to content yourself with contemplating its exterior, specifically, its imposing minaret.

Although you can see it very well approaching from the Jemaa El Fna SquareWithout a doubt the best place to enjoy its beauty is from the gardens which are found on its west side, on the way to the Kasbah, which is a peaceful place among palm trees.