Mausolée de Moulay Ismaïl

Built in 1703 by the architect Ahmed Eddahbi, during the lifetime of the Alaouite sultan Moulay Ismail (1645-1727), this mausoleum now houses his tomb alongside one of his wives and two of his sons. It is one of the very few Moroccan places of worship open to non-Muslim visitors, offering privileged access to royal funerary architecture.

The visit passes through a succession of peaceful courtyards lined with plain walls, designed to encourage reflection, before reaching an ablutions courtyard surrounded by a colonnade. Non-Muslims can then enter a richly decorated antechamber from which the burial chamber itself can be observed — direct access remaining reserved for Muslims. A curious detail stands out: four Comtoise clocks, given to the sultan by Louis XIV, through his minister Colbert, as an apology after his refusal to grant Moulay Ismail the hand of a French princess.

Restored in 1960 under the reign of Mohammed V, the mausoleum retains a carved cedar wood ceiling dating from the 17th century and a stucco frieze running along the walls. Modest dress (covered shoulders and knees) is required for the visit.