"Moulay Idriss" a Moulay Idriss Travel Page by Bernhadette

Religious tradition has it that Moulay Idriss is the oldest and holiest town in Morocco. So it has become the most important place of pilgrimage in the country. Some even say that a certain number of pilgrimages to Moulay Idriss can substitute the "hadj" to Mekka.

You should behave with discretion and respect, when visiting the town; especially in August, the time of the local festivities ("moussem") in honor of the founder.

The city is said to be founded in 787or 788 by Moulay Idriss, the famous ruler of the first Arabian dynasty in Morocco, after his flight from the Middle East. Here in the Zerhoun Mountains seems to have been his first place of refuge in Morocco, from where he spread the new religion of Islam. Situated on a slope of the Djabal Zerhoun, the city has quarters on different levels: Hay Khiber and Hay Tasga. At the town's center, about halfway up to the highest point, you will find the shrine and "zaouia" of Moulay Idriss.

Moulay Idriss is a great place for a day-trip. You also can combine it with a visit to the ancient site of Volubilis. You can easily get there from Meknès, by bus or "grand taxi". It's an about 30 min ride, depending on the transportation.

In English:
lexicorient.com/morocco/moulay_idriss.htm
www.sacredsites.com/africa/morocco/morocco.html

In French:
www.lagazettedumaroc.com/articles.php?r=7&sr=971&n=467&id_artl=9685
www.lagazettedumaroc.com/articles.php?r=7&sr=971&n=467&id_artl=9683

In German
www.g26.ch/marokko_guide_moulay_idriss.html

Moulay Idriss photos:
photosmaghreb.canalblog.com/archives/maroc___meknes/index.html
www.baudelet.net/ma08.htm
www.panograph.at/maroc/pan.php?ville=moulay_idriss&?