About My Idriss Mausoleum

Located in the old medina of Fez, the mausoleum of Zaouia Moulay Idriss II was built in 1717 and completed in 1824 using the Alaouite architectural style. Now, the Mausoleum is composed of a mosque and a tomb that are used by locals for religious affairs and funerals.

Due to the religious value of this place for locals and muslims, accessing the inside place to see the wonderful artwork and the tomb itself is not permitted for non-muslims.

The history of the mausoleum construction shows the great development of this building. It starts with Dar Al-Quaytoun (house of tent) when Moulay Driss (the father) wanted to build the town. Then, Al-Ashraf mosque (mosque of the nobles) was constructed as a place of prayer for Moulay Driss and a fountain for ablutions in the middle of the mausoleum.

As you step inside the main courtyard of the mausoleum, you will be attracted by the fabulous artwork of the carpenters who designed the colorful and big gates, not only this but you will be also fascinated by the great selection of Zellij in both the ground and the walls of the place. The lanterns made by local handicraftsmen and hung from the ceiling or to the walls of the mosque give a touch of spirituality to your visit of the holiest place of your trip to Fez.

This is just a perfect place to visit if you are treading Fez. It is one of the most important pillars of Fez’s history and of Morocco’s as well.

visiting hours

Open for public

Entrance fees

Free

Time to spend there

30 to 40 mins

Tips when visiting the zaouia

To make your visit to the Zaouia of Moulay Idriss II in Fez, there some do’s and don'ts to follow:

Do’s:

  • Adjust the settings of your camera and be ready to take pictures at anything because you  will not have enough time to adjust them at spur of moment.

  • Read about the place you are visiting before coming to it. That will help you enjoy it more.
My Idriss Mausoleum

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