Marrakech-Djemma El Fna (the souks) Part 4

I went into the Koutubia Mosque.Wanted to do some prayers..

Both men and the ladies go thru the same door. Ladies, you must be dressed in loose clothes covered from head to toe (as I normally dressed) to enter. But if you dont, they just tell you to wear it inside the mosque (but no dresses available though)

travel tip/tricks: Some mosque dont allow non-muslims to enter. (In Hassan Mosque in Casablanca, u need to pay 120Dirham to get a 30minute tour guide with u)So there will be security at the entrance to ask you to say the kalimah shahadah for those who dont look like muslims.(I was lucky enough to look like one)

When entering the mosque, take off the shoes and take the plastic bag in the basket to carry your shoes along.

I was looking for ablution corner at the ladies side but found none. Luckily I met a french lady who speaks English and was finding the same thing as me.She was from Maghribi visiting Marrakech with her brother.She helped me by asking the ladies but they also said they dunno where the water for ablution is. I saw the men taking ablution and I thought that women should have too.And then the women called me over and showed me a stone.

They told me in their french and hand languages that they use the stone to tayamum. Which to replaced ablution in situations where water is not available. (hmm..)i learnt about tayamum and I procrastinate or perhaps, I was stunned cos I saw the men taking the ablution outside...and then they showed me repetitively how to do it and I just follow and then the call of prayer came in(the azan came in 2 stages just like Mecca/Medina)The first azan was sounded to inform everyone to come to the mosque.The second azan normally came after 15-20minutes later and that is when we get ready for the congregration prayer. I wasnt prepared. I was fumbling with my camera and videocameras and my bags and the pins of my scarves.One lady was kind enough to help me. (Note: No telekung, jilbab, jubah/dresses is available, so bring ur own)