Moulay Idriss Zerhoun
Morocco · Fès-Meknès · 550 m
Description
Moulay Idriss Zerhoun (مولاي إدريس زرهون) is considered one of Morocco’s holiest cities and a major spiritual center of the country. Set on two hills at the foot of the Zerhoun Mountains, the town grew around the mausoleum of Idris I, founder of the Idrisid dynasty and a key figure in the early Islamic history of Morocco. Known for its whitewashed houses, green-tiled roofs, winding alleys, and deep religious significance, Moulay Idriss remained a secluded pilgrimage site for centuries. Until 2005, non-Muslims were not permitted to stay overnight in the town. Today, its annual Moussem festival in August continues to attract thousands of pilgrims and visitors.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 day
Travel season
Best time to visit: April – May
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Grand and Petite Terraces viewpoints
- Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss I
- Volubilis Archaeological Site (UNESCO)(Day trip)
- Historic old town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun
- Green-tiled mausoleum and townscape
- Cylindrical minaret of the Sentissi Mosque
- Moulay Idriss Zerhoun souks
- Zerhoun Mountains
- Zerhoun Mountain hiking trails
- Olive groves around Moulay Idriss
- Walk from Moulay Idriss to Volubilis
- Moussem of Moulay Idriss Al Akbar (August)