Ben Youssef Medersa, Marrakesh

The Ben Youssef Medersa was an Islamic theology school that was founded in the 14th century by the Marinid Dynasty. It was completely rebuilt in 1565 by Saadian Sultan Abdallah El-Ghalib, who beautified the institution with a patio, sculpted cedar woodwork, and stuccos. Before it closed down in the year 1960, the Ben Youssef Medersa was one of the biggest madrasas in North Africa with a capacity to instruct 900 students. In 1980, it was opened for tourists to learn more about its rich history and see the beauty of its central patio paved with white marble.