The University of Al Qarawiyyin is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in history. It was founded in the city of Fez, Morocco, to be a beacon of learning and knowledge in the Islamic and Western worlds alike. The importance of this university is not limited to its historical antiquity, but also extends to its cultural, religious, and scientific role in shaping Islamic civilization. UNESCO and the Guinness Book of World Records have classified it as the oldest university still in operation.
What Is the University of Al Qarawiyyin?
The University of Al-Qarawiyyin is a religious educational institution founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, a woman who immigrated from Kairouan to Morocco. Initially established as a mosque, the university evolved into an educational center that attracted scholars and students from across the Islamic world. Numerous disciplines, including jurisprudence, medicine, astronomy, mathematics, and logic, were taught at the university, and prominent scholars such as Ibn Khaldun, Ibn Rushd, and Ibn Arabi attended its seminaries.
Discover Our Best Morocco Group Tours
View all Morocco Group Tours
What Architecture Features Make the University of Al Qarawiyyin Unique?
The University of Al Qarawiyyin’s architectural style is characterized by authentic Islamic and Andalusian grandeur. It features domes and arches decorated with traditional Moroccan zellij, hand-carved wooden pulpits, and beautiful fountains that reflect the university’s spiritual and intellectual character.
See Also: Morocco Cultural Tour Itinerary
What Programs and Courses Does the University Offer?
Today, the University of Al Qarawiyyin offers a variety of religious and humanities majors. The university focuses primarily on Islamic law, Arabic language, and comparative jurisprudence, but also includes Islamic philosophy, astronomy, and Islamic history.
The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs in Morocco oversees the university’s administration and awards academic degrees in Islamic and linguistic sciences. Courses are taught in classical Arabic, using both traditional and modern curricula. Programs include:
- Bachelor of Islamic Studies
- Master of Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence
- Short courses in Arabic calligraphy and Tajweed
- Programs to train imams and preachers
Are there any Museums or Exhibitions Related to the University?
Yes, the University of Al-Qarawiyyin embraces a tremendous historical and scientific legacy, and is an important cultural destination for visitors and researchers:
Al Qarawiyyin Library
One of the oldest libraries in the world, founded in the ninth century AD, it is a treasure trove of knowledge containing more than 4,000 rare manuscripts. Among the most notable are:
- A copy of the Holy Quran dating back to the second century AH, written in Kufic script.
- Rare manuscripts on medicine, astronomy and mathematics from the Islamic Golden Age.
- Written by the handwriting of great scholars such as Ibn Rushd and Ibn Khaldun.
Exhibitions within the University
The university’s halls display scientific tools and instruments used by students in the past, including:
- Astrolabes and primitive observatories were used to study the stars and determine directions.
- Calculating tools and manuscripts showing how mathematics and astronomy were taught.
- Wooden writing boards and traditional ink writing tools.
Temporary and Traveling Exhibitions
The university, in cooperation with the Ministry of Endowments, occasionally holds temporary exhibitions displaying special manuscripts to the public, or hosts international exhibitions showcasing the heritage of other Islamic universities.
In conclusion, the University of Al-Qarawiyyin remains an icon of Islamic and Arab history, a living testament to women’s leadership and contribution, and to the importance of knowledge in building civilizations. Through its unique architecture, distinguished curricula, and role in spreading Islamic culture, this university remains an indispensable destination for researchers and those interested in Islamic history.
Discover Our Best Morocco Luxury Tours
View all Morocco Luxury Tours
Book your trip now to enjoy a rich tourist and cultural experience that combines history, nature, and relaxation!
People Also Ask
Where Is the University of Al Qarawiyyin Located?
The University of Al Qarawiyyin is located in old Fez, Morocco. This city is one of the oldest Islamic cities in Morocco, and contains a network of narrow alleys and traditional markets. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Who Founded the University of Al Qarawiyyin?
The university was founded by Fatima al-Fihri in 859 AD, a learned woman who used her personal wealth to build a religious scholarly institution aimed at spreading knowledge.
What Is the Role of the University in Preserving Moroccan Culture?
The University of Al Qarawiyyin plays a central role in preserving Morocco’s cultural and religious heritage. It has produced numerous scholars and jurists and contributed to the transmission of Islamic sciences to Europe during the Middle Ages. Its architectural design and ancient library also preserve Morocco’s cultural identity.
