Holiday Ayo - Five times a day, one voice rises above the din of Djemaa El Fna as the muezzin calls the faithful to prayer from the Koutoubia Mosque. The mosque's minaret has been standing guard over the old city since the Almohads erected it in the 12th century.

The mosque was founded in 1147 by the Almohad caliph Abd al-Mu'min right after he conquered Marrakesh from the Almoravids.

It is located in the southwest medina quarter of Marrakesh, near the famous public place of Jemaa el-Fna, and is flanked by large gardens.

The Koutoubia Mosque minaret is topped by a spire of brass balls.

Once made from gold, local legend tells that the balls were gifted to the mosque by the wife of Almohad sultan Yacoub Al Mansour.

She melted down her jewelry as punishment after being spotted eating during Ramadan fasting hours.

On the northwestern side of the Koutoubia Mosque minaret are the ruins of the original prayer hall.

One story goes that it collapsed during the massive 1755 Lisbon earthquake, killing hundreds of people as it crumbled.

Visitors of all faiths can check out Koutoubia's plaza and gardens for free, while Muslims can also head inside the mosque without paying a fee.

The mosque is open between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. No additional facilities are available on-site, but you'll find a variety of shops and eateries in the surrounding area.

Recent travelers enjoyed visiting Koutoubia Mosque, adding that it's a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Many were also quick to praise the building's beautiful architecture.