Al Quaraouiyine University: The Oldest University in the World

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December 16, 2025

Al Quaraouiyine University has consistently been the moral and cultural support of Morocco, besides this, it is one of the country's prime spots for intellectual and scientific life. Among the earliest universities still operational, it was established in 859 A.D. and has ever since been the medieval university-type model that drove the others into the light of the Islamic and Western world at large especially religion, science, and philosophy disciplines. Al Quaraouiyine with its marvelous architectural structure and magnificent submerged cultural legacies is a symbol of power and light in the world of knowledge thus offering one the opportunity of discovering this wonder through Morocco's tours.

History & Foundation

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Al Quaraouiyine University, which has been a famous educational institution for more than a millennium, was set up by the astute Fatima al-Fihri whose profound donation established this center of learning that is still flourishing today. At first, it was a mosque but over time it became a university and a center of excellence in theology, law, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Incorporating Al Quaraouiyine into Morocco travel packages gives the tourists the chance to see one of the most ancient and culturally vibrant places to visit in Morocco..

Academic & Cultural Significance

Al Quaraouiyine University was the main contact point for scholars from North Africa, Andalusia, and the Middle East. It was an important center for the development of medieval education and learning, especially in the case of Morocco and even Europe, since its influence was quite wide. For sure, it is a must to visit this historic university for anyone who is in Morroco for a tour so it has become one of the best places in Morocco to visit for people interested in culture, history, and knowledge to go.

Architectural Highlights

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The educational institutions’ buildings show off the use of both Moroccan and Islamic architectures: Horseshoe arches Zellij tilework of the finest and most intricate designs Ceilings of carved cedar wood Wide courtyards and prayer rooms

The Al Quaraouiyine Library

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The Al Quaraouiyine Library is not only the oldest library but also one of the largest in the world. Its main attraction is its collection of ancient manuscripts and historical texts that are incredibly diverse in their subjects such as science, theology, and philosophy, and scholars from all over the world have been benefiting from the university's contributions to knowledge and education for a long time. Moreover, taking a trip to this library is a must if one goes to Morocco, therefore it is prominently listed as one of the best places to visit  and it is also a significant spot for those who are looking for Morocco travel packages.

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Visiting Al Quaraouiyine Today

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Place: Fes el-Bali (the old medina) Entrance: Non-Muslims have access to the mosque from certain predefined places Attractions near: Chouara Tannery, Bou Inania Madrasa, Nejjarine Fountain

Best Time to Visit Al Quaraouiyine University

Morning: Early day visiting permits one to relish the university and the library with not many people around and glowing, less brightening and more picture taking light.

Spring & Autumn: Such times bring delights by providing warm temperatures, so that the whole city of Fes can be visited pleasantly and easily. If you are on a Morocco tour  , it is recommended to plan your visit during these months to guarantee an unforgettable experience of this top-rated place to visit in Morocco.

Travel Tips

Wear clothes that cover well, especially at the religious sites Photography might be not allowed in certain areas Look around the other madrasas for getting good interior views You might want to participate in a guided tour for more profound historical knowledge

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