Kouba Baroudiyine, the Almoravid koubba, a hidden gem in Central Marrakech

The oldest building in Marrakech is the Kouba Baroudiyine, the washrooms from the original Mosque built by, and named after Ben Yussef the second King of the Almoravid dynasty. Sadly this is the only remaining example of the highly decorated architecture of this period. It features some fantastic details which are echoed in later islamic buildings.

The Kouba was completed in the year 1117 and the foundations have an inscription which is believed to be the oldest inscription in cursive script in the whole of North Africa.  It reads ‘I was created for science and prayer, by the prince of the believers, descendant of the prophet, Abdallah, most glorious of all Caliphs. Pray for him when you enter the door, so that you may fulfill your highest hopes.’

To the east of the Koubba are a series of vaulted chambers which were reservoirs for the washroom was supplied by water from the Atlas mountains channelled through the remarkable Almoravid system of canals and underground channels that also fed the public fountains of Marrakech and made possible the remarkable growth of the walled city in this period.

Opening Times: Every day from 9h to 13h and from 14h30 to 18h
Entrance fee: 10 dh

Our Riad Cinnamon is located just a few hundred yards from the Kouba. The great thing about staying in such a central location is you can enjoy the monuments and museums, retreat to the privacy of the Riad, then go out again to the hustle and bustle of the souks!  Reserve accommodation today!