The Saadian Tombs are another of the most visited sites in Marrakech. The sepulchers date back to 1578-1603 and the Saadien dynasty of Ahmad-al-Mansur. The tombs are located on the south side of the Kasbah Mosque.
The mausoleum holds about sixty members of the Saadi dynasty. It is comprised of four large rooms. Outside is a small garden and the graves of soldiers and servants.
The tombs have beautiful decorations made of carved cedar, stucco and Carrara marble. This family ruled over Marrakech from 1524-1659. They were one of the most important families of that time. Later on, Moulay Ismail wanted to destroy all signs of the family but did not destroy the tombs. Instead, he ordered the door to the tombs sealed. They were rediscovered in 1917.
The tombs are opened from 9-5 every day and it costs 70 dirhams to enter. (10 dirhams if you are Moroccan or a resident of Morocco).
It was very crowded when we went in the morning. There was a long line to view the room of twelve columns were Ahmad-al-Mansur is buried. It was worth it though. The room is stunning. People were patient and allowed you to take your time and some photos when it was your turn to view the tombs.
There are many tours available for this site, but we did it alone. Although the site is not very large, it took us a little over an hour to see everything. Some of that time was waiting in line for the large tomb. It is definitely a site worth visiting when you are in Marrakech. You won’t see many examples of Moroccan artisanal work better than this. It is truly stunning.
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