HISTORY

The History of the Medersa Ben Youssef

The Ben Youssef Madrasa was originally founded during the Marinid Islamic dynasty. This dynasty, known for its perpetuation of the arts and literature, ruled from 1196 to 1465 AD. The madrasa is named after the Almoravid Sultan Ali ibn Yusuf (reigned 1106-1142 ad.) However, the current building was constructed by the Saadian Sultan Abdallah al-Ghalib (reign 1557-1574 AD) in 1565, more than 100 years following the death of bin Yusuf. The structure was likely built on the site of an existing Madrasa sponsored by Ali bin Yusuf.

Historically, madrasas have served as a center for learning, worship and community interaction. In addition to teaching Quranic Tasfeer and Islamic jurisprudence, Islamic schools often taught a wide variety of subjects, including literature, science and history. The Ben Youssef Madrasa, in fulfilling these functions, was also one of the largest theological colleges in North Africa, reportedly able to accommodate upwards of 800 students. Closed down in 1960, the building was refurbished and reopened to the public as a historical site in 1982. The Ben Yusuf Madrasa currently attracts thousands of tourists every year and remains one of the most important historical buildings in Marrakesh