Moulay Idriss
Moulay Idriss

Moulay Idriss

Moulay Idriss

The basics

It was only in 2005 that non-Muslims were allowed to stay overnight in Moulay Idriss, and most travelers still visit as a day trip from Fez. A popular day out combines Moulay Idriss with the imperial city of Meknes and the Roman ruins of Volubilis, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. Moulay Idriss is also a common stop on multi-day Morocco journeys and tours of Morocco’s imperial cities (Fez, Rabat, Meknes, and Marrakech).

Only Muslims can enter the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, which dates back to the turn of the 18th century, and other sacred buildings. But non-Muslims can still enjoy sweeping views from the Big Terrace (Grande Terrasse), visit the Roman baths, see the aqueduct, and soak up the atmosphere. As the town can be hard to navigate, many travelers explore with a guide.

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Things to know before you go

  • Moulay Idriss is a must for history buffs and travelers interested in religion.

  • This is a sacred and conservative town, so modest dress is important. Women should wear long, loose pants or skirts with a loose, long-sleeved, high-neck top; men should wear long pants and shirts.

  • Fez and Meknes have much broader ranges of accommodation than Moulay Idriss.

  • Moulay Idriss is a hill town, and the streets are often sloping, cobbled, or lined with steps. It’s not a destination for travelers who rely on wheelchairs.

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How to get there

Moulay Idriss lies in northern Morocco, about 40 miles (65 kilometers) west of Fez and 20 miles (30 kilometers) north of Meknes. It’s a scenic 2.5-mile (4-kilometer) hike, donkey ride, or drive from the Roman ruins at Volubilis. Trains link Fez and Meknes, from where shared “grand taxis” and regular taxis connect to Moulay Idriss. Many travelers opt to hire a driver or join a tour with transport.

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When to get there

August is pilgrimage season for Moulay Idriss, but unless you’re a pilgrim yourself, the town is best avoided at this time. Saturdays can be a lovely day to visit, with great people-watching opportunities as the local market comes alive.

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Why is Moulay Idriss so important to Moroccans?

Moulay Idriss takes its name from Moulay Idriss, also known as Idris I, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad buried in the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss. He conquered parts of northern Morocco and founded the city of Fez, where his son Moulay Idriss II is buried in the Zaouia Moulay Idriss II. Considered the founder of Islamic Morocco, Moulay Idriss is a Sufi saint.

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Häufig gestellte Fragen (FAQs)
Die unten aufgeführten Antworten basieren auf Antworten, die der Touranbieter kürzlich auf Fragen von Kunden gegeben hat.
F:
Welche anderen Sehenswürdigkeiten liegen am nächsten bei der Sehenswürdigkeit Moulay Idriss?
A:
Sehenswürdigkeiten in der Nähe der Sehenswürdigkeit Moulay Idriss: