Koutoubia Mosque: A Historical and Architectural Jewel of Marrakech
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The Koutoubia Mosque, a prominent Islamic landmark, stands as a significant testament to Morocco's rich history. Located in Marrakech near the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, the mosque’s name derives from "Koutoubiyin," referring to a book market that once existed nearby, which was destroyed by French colonial forces.
Historical Background
The Koutoubia Mosque has a long and storied history, tracing its origins back to ancient civilizations. The original mosque was built by Abd al-Mu’min ibn Ali al-Kumi in 1147 AD on the ruins of the Almoravid royal palace. Archaeological excavations have revealed remnants of the Almoravid structure beneath the mosque.
The mosque was rebuilt in 1158 AD, maintaining a similar size to the original. The second mosque features a rectangular prayer hall with seventeen aisles oriented vertically toward the qibla (direction of prayer). It is supported by columns and arches with unique capitals reminiscent of those found in the Qarawiyyin Mosque in Fez. The intersection of the prayer hall and its five domes exemplifies the architectural characteristics of Almohad religious architecture, which significantly influenced the western Islamic world.
As described by the historian in "Al-Halal al-Mushiyya," Abd al-Mu’min constructed another mosque on the site of the earlier one and commenced the building of the new, larger mosque while demolishing the old one built by Ali ibn Yusuf.
Architectural Description
The Koutoubia Mosque is renowned for its exceptional dimensions and design. Covering an area of 5,300 square meters, the mosque features seventeen aisles and eleven domes adorned with intricate decorations. The mosque has been the site of many significant events and declarations throughout history. The mosque’s minaret, decorated with a turquoise-tiled frieze, has become a symbol of Marrakech.
The mosque's pulpit, crafted in Córdoba in the early 12th century at the request of the Almoravid emir Ali ibn Yusuf, is a masterpiece of Islamic woodcraft. This pulpit was transferred to the Koutoubia Mosque around 1150 AD.
The Minaret
The minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque was commissioned by the Almohad founder Abd al-Mu’min ibn Ali al-Kumi (1130-1163) and completed by his son, al-Mansur (1184-1199). Situated in the southeastern part of the mosque, the minaret features a square design topped with a cylindrical dome. The minaret is embellished with battlements and consists of six stacked, identical chambers, surrounded by a sloping and straight passage covered with semi-cylindrical domes. At the corners, there are additional domes with sharp edges.
Constructed from sandstone sourced from the nearby Kéliz Mountains, the minaret’s upper sections use smaller stones mixed with brick to reduce its weight. Originally covered with a layer of lime plaster, the facade is adorned with decorative lines that mask imperfections in the stone cutting, which are still visible today.
Decoration and Influence
The minaret's decoration is divided into five levels. Each facade features flat bands composed of interlocking, multi-lobed arches. The spaces between the carved decorations are painted with red motifs representing floral, geometric, and calligraphic patterns. The uppermost bands are decorated with geometric patterns made of white and greenish-blue tiles, distinguishing them from the rest of the minaret.
The decorative principles of the Koutoubia minaret are reminiscent of those seen in the Giralda of Seville and the Hassan Tower in Rabat, suggesting inspiration from the minaret of Abd al-Rahman III’s Great Mosque of Córdoba. This influence is evident from illustrations dating between 1562 and 1571, depicting the mosque's design.
Conclusion
The Koutoubia Mosque stands as a monumental example of Islamic architecture, blending historical significance with architectural grandeur. Its construction, renovations, and decorative elements reflect the profound influence of Almoravid and Almohad architectural traditions. As a landmark in Marrakech, the Koutoubia Mosque continues to be a symbol of the city's rich cultural and historical heritage.