The Saadian Tombs

The Saadian Tombs in Marrakesh are the final resting sites of about sixty Saadi Dynasty monarchs and members, including Sultan Ahmed El Mansour (the dynasty's sixth sultan) and his family.

The Saadian dynasty controlled Morocco from 1549 to 1659, and its mausoleum is supposed to have been constructed in the 14th century. The tombs were extensively extended, restored, and magnificently painted under the reign of Ahmed el-Mansour in 1578, owing to the fact that his father was buried here in 1557. The tombs were lavishly decorated with imported Italian marble and the finest artisans.

Over 166 of Saadi society's most significant individuals were buried here, including el-Mansour and his immediate family, as well as many other royal princes, chancellors, and councilors. The closer these persons were buried to the sultan, the more significant they were.

Moulay Ismail erected a high wall around the tombs, allowing only a narrow route to access them. As a result, they were completely forgotten about until 1917, when they were uncovered during a French aerial survey of the area. The tombs were meticulously renovated after that and subsequently opened to the public.

Location: Rue de La Kasbah, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco.