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The world's oldest continuously operating university (founded 859 CE) with stunning green-tiled roofs.
About this experience
Founded in 859 CE by Fatima al-Fihri, a daughter of a wealthy Tunisian merchant, Al-Qarawiyyin is recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. It is also the first institution to grant academic degrees in theology, law, mathematics, music, medicine, botany, geography, and astronomy. The associated mosque - one of the largest in Africa - can hold up to 22,000 worshippers. The university's library, restored in 2016, holds priceless manuscripts including a 9th-century Quran and the original writings of Averroes (Ibn Rushd). Non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall, but can admire the Islamic-Maghrebi architecture from the 14 immense doors, particularly the restored main gate. The best view is from the roof of the Weaving Art workshop on Rue Boutouil, offering a bird's-eye perspective of the glossy emerald-green tiles set like a jewel in the medina's heart. Muslim visitors can enter and marvel at pavilions reminiscent of the Court of Lions at the Alhambra in Granada, along with intricate Kufic inscriptions and floral stucco compositions. The university was a major center for translating Greek philosophical and scientific works into Arabic, preserving knowledge that later fueled the European Renaissance[citation:2][citation:5][citation:7].
Insider Tips
- Non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, but can view from doors[citation:2]
- Climb to the Weaving Art workshop roof on Rue Boutouil for the best view of the green tiles[citation:7]
- The library is separately accessible on specific tours
- Look for the massive emerald-green roof - it's visible from rooftops across the medina
- The university celebrated its 1,200th anniversary in 2019
Best Time to Visit
Best experienced during: Morning, Late afternoon