Mouassine Fountain

Overview

The Mouassine Fountain is a 16th-century Saadian public fountain, one of the largest of its kind in Marrakesh. Set into the wall of the Mouassine Mosque, it features an ornately carved cedar wood canopy and zellige tilework.

Highlights

• Cedar canopy: An elaborately carved wooden overhang, remarkably preserved after 500 years.
• Triple basins: Separate drinking troughs for humans, horses, and pack animals.
• Hidden hammam: A traditional bath house operates through an adjacent unmarked door.

History

Commissioned during the Saadian dynasty, the fountain was part of a religious complex including a mosque, hammam, Koranic school, and bakery.

Visitor Tips

• Free and always open: A quick stop while exploring the Mouassine quarter.
• Photography: Morning light catches the carved cedarwood best.
• Duration: 10–15 minutes.