The Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, located in Fez, Morocco, is one of the most significant historical and educational institutions in the world. Here’s an overview:
Qarawiyyin Mosque
- Founded: 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, the daughter of a wealthy merchant. She used her inheritance to build this mosque, which became a center of learning.
- Architecture: The mosque features traditional Moroccan architecture with a large courtyard, intricate tilework (zellij), and beautifully carved wooden elements. Its design has been expanded and modified over the centuries.
- Religious Significance: It is one of the oldest mosques in Morocco and has served as a central place of worship for centuries. The mosque can accommodate thousands of worshippers and is an important religious site in the city of Fez.
Qarawiyyin University
- Historical Significance: The University of al-Qarawiyyin is recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest existing, continually operating higher educational institution in the world. It predates universities like Oxford and the Sorbonne.
- Subjects Taught: Historically, the university taught a wide range of subjects including theology, law, medicine, mathematics, astronomy, and philosophy. It was a major center for the Islamic Golden Age’s intellectual activity.
- Notable Scholars: The university has been associated with many prominent scholars, including the famous philosopher and polymath Ibn Rushd (Averroes) and the Jewish philosopher Maimonides.
- Modern Status: Today, al-Qarawiyyin functions more as a religious school, offering traditional Islamic studies. It is still a respected institution, though it no longer operates in the same capacity as a modern university.
Visiting the Site
- Location: Situated in the old medina of Fez, the mosque and university are key landmarks.
- Accessibility: Non-Muslims are generally not allowed to enter the mosque, but they can view it from the outside and explore the surrounding areas of the medina, which are rich with history and culture.
The Qarawiyyin Mosque and University are integral parts of Morocco’s heritage and continue to be revered for their historical and educational contributions.
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