Qarawiyin University

Qarawiyin University was founded in 859 AD by Fatima al-Fihri, a wealthy woman from Tunisia. Originally established as a mosque, it gradually evolved into a center of learning and scholarship, attracting scholars from various disciplines. Historically, Qarawiyin University was one of the first educational institutions to admit both male and female students, irrespective of their social status or background. This emphasis on inclusivity was groundbreaking for its time.

The university is situated in the heart of Fes, one of Morocco’s most historically and culturally rich cities. The campus includes a mosque, a library, classrooms, and courtyards with stunning architecture that showcases the traditional Moroccan style. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious libraries in Morocco. The library houses a collection of ancient manuscripts, some of which date back to the 9th century and contains a wealth of knowledge. It houses an exceptional documentary heritage including manuscripts from the works of great Moroccan scholars such as Averroes, Ibn Khaldoun, Ibn Al Khatib and Ibn Tofail as well as the mystic poet Ibn Al Arabi. Some dating back to the 12th century. It’s a treasure trove for researchers and historians interested in Islamic culture and heritage.

Qarawiyin University has a long history of significant contributions to various fields of knowledge, including Islamic studies, law, theology, grammar, rhetoric, mathematics, medicine, and astronomy. It has served as a prominent hub for Islamic scholars and intellectuals over the centuries. It holds the distinction of being one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world and is recognized by UNESCO as the oldest existing degree-granting educational institution. During the era of the Merinids a qayyim or librarian was appointed. The Saadians added precious manuscripts to the collection in the 16th century and Ahmed Al Mansour supplied it with hundreds of valuable books in his lifetime.

The library has played a big role in the sharing of knowledge between Muslims and Europeans as far back as the Middle Ages. One of the unique aspects of Qarawiyin University is that, despite its academic role, it continues to function as a fully operational mosque. The main prayer hall within the campus accommodates both students and worshippers attending daily prayers.
To protect this valuable collection a heavy copper door with 4 locks was added to the library. Each of the 4 librarians had only 1 key. In recent years the library has undergone major restoration

Over the centuries, Qarawiyin University has faced various challenges and undergone numerous renovations and expansions. While Qarawiyin University remains committed to preserving its historical and traditional values, it has also modernized its educational approach. It offers courses in various disciplines and continues to adapt to contemporary academic standards. Today, it stands as a symbol of Morocco’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage and continues to attract visitors, scholars, and students from around the world who seek to explore its history and immerse themselves in its academic atmosphere.