Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque: A Historical and Academic Beacon in Morocco
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The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque in Fes, Morocco, stands as one of the oldest and most distinguished mosques in the Islamic world. Established in 859 AD, this historic site has evolved into a symbol of religious and academic excellence. It represents a pivotal center of knowledge and spirituality in Morocco, reflecting centuries of development and intellectual advancement. This article delves into the mosque's origins, its architectural expansions, notable features, and its profound significance in the realm of education and culture.
The Foundation of Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque
The Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque was founded by Fatima al-Fihri, also known as Umm al-Banin. Fatima and her entourage arrived in Fes from the city of Kairouan, settling in an area near the proposed site of the mosque. Following the death of her husband and brothers, Fatima inherited a substantial fortune. She decided to utilize her wealth for charitable purposes, including the construction of a mosque, which she hoped would earn her divine reward.
Fatima purchased the land on which the mosque was built and began its construction. Under the supervision of the Idrisid ruler Yahya I, the mosque’s foundations were laid. Fatima continued fasting and dedicating her efforts to the project until its completion. Upon finishing the construction, she performed a prayer of gratitude to God for successfully completing the mosque. The mosque was named "Al-Qarawiyyin" due to its location on a rise known as "Qarawiyyin Heights," a reference to the arrival of Arabs from Kairouan.
Expansions and Developments
Throughout its history, Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque has undergone several significant expansions. Initially, the mosque consisted of four aisles and a small courtyard, measuring 150 cubits from west to east. After the decline of the Idrisid dynasty and the rise of the Zanata state, substantial expansions were made. The mosque underwent major renovations, and the khutbah (sermon) was transferred from the Mosque of the Sharifs to Al-Qarawiyyin.
During the reign of Abd al-Rahman al-Nasir, Ahmed ibn Abi Bakr al-Zanati was assigned the task of refurbishing and enlarging Al-Qarawiyyin. Al-Nasir sent funds from the fifth of the spoils of war to support these renovations, leading to the construction of a new minaret to replace the old one. This period marked a significant enhancement of the mosque’s architectural and functional aspects.
Location and Construction Timeline
Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque is situated in the city of Fes, one of the most important cities in Morocco. The mosque was constructed on two prominent hills: one known as "Qarawiyyin Hill," where the mosque was established, and the other as "Andalusian Hill," named after the Arabs coming from Andalusia. The mosque was built during the era of the Idrisid dynasty, who established their rule in Morocco and made Fes their capital. The construction began on the first Saturday of Ramadan in the year 245 AH (30 November 859 AD).
Soon after its construction, Al-Qarawiyyin evolved into a comprehensive academic institution, teaching various sciences including medicine, astronomy, engineering, and timekeeping. It became an independent center of learning, distinct from the Kairouan Mosque, which was once considered a branch. The mosque reached the zenith of its scholarly influence during the Marinid period, establishing itself as a crucial center for intellectual advancement in the Islamic world.
Architectural Features
Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque is notable for its architectural grandeur and historical significance. It is larger than the nearby Mosque of the Andalusians in Fes. The mosque features a grand entrance with an aesthetically pleasing façade, and a nearby fountain, meticulously designed to provide cool water during hot days and warmth in colder weather.
At the threshold of the mosque’s main entrance, there is a flowing water feature and a prominent fountain known as "Bila Fountain," standing about half a stature within the courtyard. The mosque also has a large entrance called "Bab al-Najjarin," which is notably high and impressive.
In the central courtyard of the mosque, there was once a mihrab (prayer niche) with an arch. During restoration work, an inscription in an ancient African Kufic script was discovered above the mihrab, highlighting the historical and architectural evolution of the mosque.
Significance of Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque
1. Academic Hub:
The mosque is considered a beacon of knowledge, attracting students and scholars from all over the world. It functioned as an Islamic university in Morocco, akin to Al-Azhar University in Egypt. For over eleven centuries, it served as a center of learning, making it the oldest Islamic university.
2. Diverse Disciplines:
The educational scope of Al-Qarawiyyin was not limited to religious and linguistic studies; it also encompassed fields such as medicine, engineering, and philosophy. This diversity contributed to its reputation as a comprehensive educational institution.
3. Historical Library:
The mosque housed a renowned library containing rare and valuable manuscripts. Although many manuscripts were lost over time, 1,613
manuscripts remain, preserving the historical and scholarly legacy of the mosque.
4. Educational Institutions for Women:
The presence of an institute for the education of women within Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque underscores its commitment to providing education across all social strata. This inclusivity highlights the mosque’s role in advancing educational opportunities for both men and women.
5. Cultural and Historical Impact:
Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque represents a crucial part of Fes’s cultural and historical heritage. Its long-standing role as a center of learning and spirituality illustrates its significance in the broader context of Islamic and Moroccan history.
Conclusion
Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque stands as a monumental testament to the rich history of Morocco and the Islamic world. Its long history, spanning over a millennium, and its role as a center of education and spiritual guidance make it one of the most significant religious and academic institutions. Through its architectural marvels, historical expansions, and diverse contributions to various fields of knowledge, Al-Qarawiyyin continues to be a symbol of scholarly excellence and cultural heritage. Its legacy endures as a beacon of enlightenment and a vital component of Morocco’s rich historical tapestry.