Al-Kutubiya Mosque
Avenue Mohammed V in Marrakesh
Description:
Al-Kutubiya Mosque is the largest mosque in Marrakech, famous for its magnificent 69-meter minaret. I saw the light of day in the 12th century. The tower was so popular with Moorish sultans that it served as a prototype for two other minarets - the Hasan Tower in Rabat and the Giralda Tower in Seville.
When the mosque was built, it served a number of functions, including a library, a university and a school.
The mosque combines elements of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture, it is covered with colored stucco and finished with brightly colored mosaics. Over time, the jewelry disappeared. The mosque is topped with five domes.
The spire of the minaret is decorated with four golden balls. According to legend, they were made from the jewels of the wife of Sultan Yaqub al-Mansour, which she had to give to God as a sign of her repentance for the sin committed during the holy month.
On the night of the full moon, you should stand under the minaret facing the east. According to legend, if at some point you see reflections of balls on the moon, you can make a wish. But remember, for it to come true, you must have pure thoughts.