Almoravid Koubba
Marrakech's oldest monument — the last surviving Almoravid building
Current Status
Restored and open to visitors — confirm hours locally before your visit.
Hours of Operation
Open daily, roughly 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (verify on arrival).
Entrance Fee
Around 100 MAD for foreign adults, with lower rates for residents and children.
About
The Almoravid Koubba — also known as the Koubba Ba'adiyn — is a small domed pavilion in the heart of Marrakech's medina, built in the early 12th century under the Almoravid sultan Ali ibn Yusuf. It once provided ritual ablutions for worshippers at the neighbouring Ben Youssef Mosque. Buried for centuries and only rediscovered in 1947, it is the only surviving Almoravid structure in the city and is widely regarded as the oldest monument in Marrakech, famous for the intricate carving of its dome.
History Of The KoubbaGallery
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Almoravid Koubba open to visitors?
Yes — the Koubba is restored and open, typically daily from around 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Opening hours in the medina can change, so it's best to confirm locally before your visit.
How much does it cost to visit?
Entry is paid at the door, at around 100 MAD for foreign adults, with lower rates for children and for Moroccan and resident visitors. Prices are set locally, so confirm the current rate on arrival.
Why is the Almoravid Koubba worth visiting?
It is the only surviving Almoravid building in Marrakech and widely considered the city's oldest monument, built in the early 12th century under Ali ibn Yusuf. Though small, its dome is a masterpiece of early Moroccan carving, with interlacing arches and some of the country's earliest muqarnas.
What is the best time of day to go?
The Koubba takes only 15–30 minutes to see. Mornings are cooler and quieter — ideal for combining it with the neighbouring Ben Youssef Madrasa — while late afternoon brings warm light to the carved dome before the 5:00 PM close.