Art, architecture & heritage

A royal necropolis.
A Marrakech landmark.

The story of the Saadian Tombs, from a royal burial place to a monument of lasting historical interest.

Tomb markers and zellij tilework inside a Saadian mausoleum — Tomb markers and zellij tilework at the Saadian Tombs.

A royal foundation

The Ministry of Culture dates the creation of the tombs to 1557, when Abdallah al-Ghalib built a burial place for his father, Muhammad al-Shaykh.

Geometric zellij tilework at the Saadian Tombs

A view of the Saadian mausoleums and courtyard

A Saadian expansion

Ahmad al-Mansur expanded the complex after the burial of his mother, Lalla Messaouda, in 1591. Its named chambers and qubba reveal several architectural chapters.

Architecture and memory

Look at marble columns, carved plaster, cedar ceilings and the relationship between the chambers and garden courtyard. This remains a burial place: give its history space as you look.