Saadian Tombs (Tombeaux Saadiens)
Rue de La Kasbah, Marrakech, Central Morocco, 40000
Constructed by Sultan Ahmad al-Mansur during the 16th century, the Saadian Tombs (Tombeaux Saadiens) are home to more than 200 crypts belonging to members of the Saadian dynasty. The magnificent mausoleums are renowned for their lavish design, featuring stunning zellige tiles, exquisite woodwork, and gold and marble embellishments.
The Basics
With a prime location, just a short stroll from El Badi Palace, the Saadian Tombs make a popular stop on Marrakech city tours, as well as day trips to Marrakech from cities such as Essaouira or Casablanca. Visitors can explore the two mausoleums—including the Hall of Twelve Columns, which houses the tomb of Ahmad el-Mansur—and stroll the beautiful gardens, where the centerpiece is the grand tomb of Sultan Ahmad el-Mansur’s mother.
Things to Know Before You Go
There is an admission fee to visit the Saadian Tombs.
There is little information available in English at the site, so visiting with a guide is recommended.
Plan at least an hour to visit the tombs.
The site is wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
The Saadian Tombs are located at the southern end of Marrakech’s medina, close to the Mellah Jewish Quarter and El Badi Palace. The site can be reached on foot from Jemaa el-Fna (15 minutes), by taxi, or by horse-drawn carriage (calèche). The entrance is on the south side of the Moulay El Yazid Mosque.
When to Get There
The tombs are open daily. It’s best to visit early to avoid the crowds. Tour groups begin arriving at 10am, and there is often a line for tickets. The tombs also close daily from 12pm until 2:30pm.
The Medina of Marrakech
The Saadian Tombs are part of Marrakech’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina, the walled old town at the heart of the city, and medina tours often include a visit to the tombs. Additional highlights of the medina include the ruins of El Badi Palace, another of Sultan Ahmad el-Mansur’s masterpieces; the opulent Bahia Palace; Ben Youssef Madrasa; and Koutoubia Mosque.
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