If you’re staying in Marrakech, another must-see is the Ali ben Youssef Medersa. The medersa was a theological college where students gathered to study Islamic scriptures, law, and science. It was very much like the Bou Inania Medersa in Fes which, as it turns out, was their rival college back in the day.
While no one studies here any more (everyone left to study with their rivals in Fes in the 1960s), it was once considered the largest Qu’ranic studies school in North Africa. Now the only studying happening comes from the tourists as they explore the courtyard and the dorm rooms above.
The entrance may not look very exciting from afar, but when you get closer…
BAM. Marble tiles. Stucco ceilings. Cedar carved in complex flowery detail. Awesome sauce. Everywhere you look.
I know it’s very similar to the one I showed you in Fes, but if you’re an amateur architecture junkie — or like me you could just stare at those soothing mosaic patterns forever — then it’s worth the return trip. I think so anyway. Enjoy the photos!
-C
