Tin Mal - Ancient Atlas Mosque

Located just off the dramatic Tizi 'n' Test road that traverses the High Atlas mountains between Marrakech and the plains of the Souss Valley to the south, ancient Tin Mal mosque was, until the early 1990’s, in quite a poor condition. However with funding from local Moroccan charities it has now been partially renovated. Unlike many mosques, this one is open for viewing to non-Muslim visitors. 

The original mosque on the site dates back to the 12th century, when it was built by Ben Toumert, a Masmouda Berber, who founded a tribal movement to fight the Almoravids. The mosque, as seen today, was built by his successor, Abd el Moumen who went on to lead the movement for more than 30 years. 

Tin Mal Mosque provides a rare chance to see inside what was once a magnificent mosque. Definitely worth a visit if travelling the Tizi 'n' Test road to or from Marrakech and Taroudant. The mosque stands above the small village of Tin Mal, approximately 100 km from Marrakech. The key to the mosque is held by a local guardian who also acts as local guide in return for a small tip.