Mosque and University of al-Qarawiyyin

The University of Al Quaraouiyine (also spelled Qarawiyyin or Al-Karaouine), located in Fes, Morocco, is recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest existing, continually operating educational institution in the world, founded in 859 CE by Fatima al-Fihri. Initially established as a mosque and later evolving into a leading center of learning, it played a crucial role in the intellectual and spiritual development of the Muslim world, attracting scholars from across the globe. The adjacent Qarawiyyin Mosque remains one of the largest and most historically significant mosques in North Africa, renowned for its stunning architecture, including intricate tilework, carved wood, and a grand courtyard. Together, the university and mosque symbolize Fes's rich heritage as a hub of Islamic scholarship, culture, and religious life for over a millennium.

The University of al-Qarawiyyin, located in Fez, Morocco, holds the distinction of being the world's oldest continuously operating degree-granting institution. Founded in 859 CE by Fatima al-Fihri, a learned woman originally from Kairouan (in present-day Tunisia), the university began as a mosque and madrasa, eventually evolving into a renowned center of higher learning . Historical Significance Established during the Islamic Golden Age, al-Qarawiyyin played a pivotal role in the intellectual and cultural development of the Muslim world. It attracted scholars from across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, facilitating the exchange of ideas in fields such as theology, law, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine . The university's curriculum was deeply rooted in Islamic studies, with a strong emphasis on Classical Arabic grammar and Maliki jurisprudence . Architectural and Cultural Heritage Situated in the heart of Fez's old medina—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—the university is part of the al-Qarawiyyin Mosque complex. The architecture showcases intricate Moroccan and Andalusian designs, featuring geometric patterns, calligraphy, and zellij tilework . The complex also houses one of the world's oldest libraries, established in 1359 CE, which contains a vast collection of manuscripts, including a 9th-century Quran and works by renowned scholars like Ibn Khaldun . Modern Developments In 1963, al-Qarawiyyin was integrated into Morocco's modern state university system, expanding its academic offerings while preserving its traditional teaching methods . Today, the university comprises several faculties across Morocco, including theology and Arabic language departments in cities like Fez, Marrakech, and Tétouan . It continues to be a vital institution for Islamic scholarship and education.

The University of Al Quaraouiyine in Fez is widely regarded as one of the oldest continuously operating educational institutions in human history. According to both UNESCO and the Guinness Book of World Records, it is recognized as the oldest existing and continually operating degree-granting university in the world. It was founded in 859 AD (245 AH) by a devout woman named Fatima Al-Fihri, who dedicated her entire inheritance to building a grand mosque in the city of Fez—then a thriving center of culture and knowledge. Over time, this mosque evolved into a prestigious institution of higher learning, attracting students from across the Islamic world and even from Europe, thanks to its diverse academic curriculum, which included not only Islamic studies but also medicine, mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, music, and logic. Al Quaraouiyine thus became a global intellectual hub long before the founding of the great European universities. Throughout its illustrious history, the University has hosted some of the most prominent thinkers and scholars, such as Ibn Khaldun, Averroes (Ibn Rushd), Al-Idrisi, and Maimonides, and even Pope Sylvester II, who is believed to have studied there and introduced Arabic scientific knowledge to Europe. Al Quaraouiyine was also the first institution known to grant a structured academic degree known as an “Ijazah,” which required rigorous attendance, scholarly engagement, and formal assessment—precursors to the modern Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctorate degrees. Architecturally, the University is housed in one of the most magnificent examples of Islamic-Andalusian design. Its vast prayer hall, ornate stucco work, calligraphy, and intricate geometric patterns reflect centuries of cultural and artistic sophistication. The University is also home to one of the oldest libraries in the Islamic world, the Al Quaraouiyine Library, which contains thousands of rare manuscripts, including hand-copied works by Ibn Sina, Averroes, and classical Qur’anic exegeses. The library was recently restored to preserve its priceless intellectual treasures. Today, despite the transformation of Morocco’s broader educational system, Al Quaraouiyine continues to operate as a center for traditional Islamic scholarship. It is currently overseen by the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, and its current president is Dr. Amal Jalal. The university maintains its unique role in training scholars in Islamic sciences, jurisprudence, Qur’anic studies, and theology, while also embracing modern methodologies and academic governance. Thus, Al Quaraouiyine is not merely an educational institution—it is a symbol of Morocco’s cultural, spiritual, and intellectual heritage. For centuries, it has stood as a beacon of knowledge, rational inquiry, and intercultural dialogue, affirming Morocco’s position as a crossroads of civilizations and ideas. Reflecting on the legacy of Al Quaraouiyine today is more than an academic exercise—it is a call to revitalize traditional knowledge systems and to reaffirm the value of intellectual integrity, critical thinking, and cultural rootedness in the face of modern challenges. In this sense, the University of Al Quaraouiyine is not a relic of the past, but a living testament to the enduring power of knowledge and faith. It reminds us that the intellectual glory of Islamic civilization was—and can still be—founded on learning, tolerance, and openness. Reviving the spirit of this historic institution offers a strategic opportunity to rebuild a meaningful educational vision rooted in both authenticity and forward-looking insight.

A truly stunning place full of history and culture! Founded in 859 AD, this mosque is not only a beautiful example of Islamic architecture but also home to the world’s oldest university. The intricate tilework, peaceful courtyards, and rich atmosphere make it a must-visit in Fez. While non-Muslims can’t enter the prayer hall, the exterior and surrounding area are breathtaking. The Medina around it adds to the experience, making it a great spot to soak in Fez’s history.

Im putting 2 stars because the way from the Old Médina to the mosque is full of scammers. People will be telling you : The mosque is under rénovation or it s closed and they ll try to send you to some differents parts of the Medina. Don't follow anyone to the way there. The mosque also let only muslims for praying and that s it. for my case, the guard just opened the door for some tourists to take the photo from a far.

The University of Al Quaraouiyine (also spelled Karaviyyin) is one of the oldest universities in the world, located in the old Medina of Fez, Morocco. Founded in the 9th century, it is known for its rich history and deep roots in Islamic scholarship, science, and philosophy. The architecture is beautiful, and the atmosphere reflects centuries of learning and culture. A must-visit for anyone interested in history, education, and Moroccan heritage.

This is located in the labyrinth of alleyways and shops in the central part of the Medina of Fez. It gets a five star rating because it is one of the oldest mosques in the world and sits next to what is regarded as one of the oldest universities in the world. It has a large courtyard and is renowned for its history of teaching.

One of the oldest Mosque and University in the world set up in the 8th century by Fatima Al-Fihri. According to UNESCO, it is “oldest existing, and continually operating educational institution in the world.”. A must visit while in Fes. The carvings are so intricate and beautiful makes you wonder at the artists who have made it happen. The floors are colourful and with beautiful and colourful patterns. Though, most of the white ceilings have turned brown, I hope they are taken care of. Entry fee is MAD20.0 and you could easily spend about an hour here.