Most Impressive Buildings In Marrakesh

Morocco is home to a host of visually striking buildings. For those planning a getaway to the country’s former imperial capital of Marrakesh, it would be a wise move to add the architectural gems outlined in this guide, to your itinerary.

Koutoubia Mosque

Mosque

The towering minaret of Koutoubia Mosque is the symbol of Marrakesh. Constructed from red bricks and sandstone, the outside of the mosque features many ornamental details. Turquoise tiling, plasterwork, calligraphy, arches, and fountains are a few of the mosque’s attractive features.

Saadian Tombs

Archaeological site

The Saadian Tombs is a large complex of lavish mausoleums and tombs. Containing the remains of royalty and those held in high regard by the sultan, the site dates back to the 1550s. Gold, Italian marble, and colourful tiling add opulence to the final resting places.

Badi Palace

Ruins

Although now in ruins, it is still easy to imagine how impressive the former palace would have been in the past. Built to be one of the finest palaces of its time, the now-bare walls of Badi Palace were once adorned with decadent ornamentation.

Bahia Palace

An ornate former royal palace, Bahia Palace showcases glorious traditional designs. Colourful tiles cover floors and walls, monumental fountains add to the air of elegance, and graceful arches lead from one area to another. You’ll also see exquisite woodwork and plasterwork.

Bahia Palace, Rue riad zitoun el-Jedid, Marrakesh, Morocco
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Ben Youssef Madrasa

School

Ben Youssef Madrasa was one of the most splendid Islamic schools across the Maghreb. Admire the exterior details from the pretty courtyard before peering out of the small windows in the comparatively austere former studying rooms.

Marrakech Museum

The interesting Marrakech Museum is housed within a former palace. The 19th-century Dar Menebhi Palace has been restored to its former glory, displaying fine Andalusian-style designs. The main courtyard has lovely ornamental fountains and a huge chandelier hangs in the central area. Beautiful craftsmanship can be seen throughout the building.

Marrakech Museum, Place Ben Youssef, Marrakech-Médina, Morocco, +212 5244 41893
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Dar Si Said

Museum

Another Marrakshi museum in a former palace, Dar Si Said has also been carefully renovated. It displays many fine examples of traditional Moroccan artisanship, including tilework, woodwork, and plasterwork.

Kasbah Mosque

Mosque

The Kasbah Mosque, also known as Moulay El Yazid Mosque, is one of the city’s oldest mosques. The reddish-coloured minaret with its band of greenish-blue tiles is somewhat similar to that of the Koutoubia Mosque. The tower is also topped with a spire and orbs.

Theatre Royal

The Roman-inspired Theatre Royal is a photogenic building in Gueliz. A relatively new addition to the city, construction of the theatre was completed in 2001. Topped with a large cupola, the front of the building features splendid columns.

Theatre Royal, Avenue Hassan II, Marrakech, Morocco, +212 5244 31516
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Marrakesh Railway Station

Attractive both inside and out, the current Marrakesh Railway Station was built in the late 2000s. It combines traditional Moroccan and Islamic styles with modern designs. The main atrium is light and airy, and there are interesting sculptures outside the main entrance.

Menara Airport

Sleek and stylish, Menara Airport perfectly blends the old with the new, with traditional designs fused with contemporary features. Symmetrical patterns, lots of glass, and gleaming white metal create a feeling of order and efficiency.

Menara Airport, Menara, Marrakesh, Morocco, +212 5244 47910
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La Mamounia Palace

The luxurious La Mamounia Hotel offers a modern stay within a historic palace. Andalusian elements are visible throughout, with vibrant tilework, intricate arches, carvings, and polished floors. The high walls present an imposing first sight.

La Mamounia Palace, Avenue Prince Moulay Rachid, Marrakech, Morocco, +212 524 388 600
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Hotel Royal Mansour

The five-star Hotel Royal Mansour is another of Marrakesh’s most attractive luxury accommodations. Lavish furnishings perfectly accentuate and complement the striking designs. Architecturally and ornamentally, the hotel blends traditional Moroccan elements with Andalusian and Moorish styles. The large and impressive entrance gateway sets the tone for the beauty concealed behind the outer walls.