Moulay Idriss II Mausoleum
A revered pilgrimage site in Fez, Morocco, housing the tomb of the city's founder, Moulay Idriss II. Admire its beautiful exterior architecture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Moulay Idriss II Mausoleum
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A revered pilgrimage site in Fez, Morocco, housing the tomb of the city's founder, Moulay Idriss II. Admire its beautiful exterior architecture.
"A peaceful and spiritual place with just an amazing architecture and color that makes you standing and staring for hours."
Respectful Dress Code
Dress modestly when visiting the area around the mausoleum. Cover shoulders and knees. :womanintunic:
Hire a Local Guide
Navigate the medina easily and avoid unwanted attention by hiring an official local guide. :walking: :man_detective:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mausoleum Exterior Architecture
Fes el-Bali Medina
Admire the intricate Moroccan Islamic architecture, featuring green-tiled roofs and detailed woodwork.
Spiritual Atmosphere
Surrounding Medina
Experience the peaceful and spiritual ambiance of this revered pilgrimage site, even from the outside.
Historical Significance
Fes el-Bali Medina
Learn about Moulay Idriss II, the founder of Fez and the Idrisid dynasty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits for Non-Muslims
Navigating the Medina
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respectful Dress Code
Dress modestly when visiting the area around the mausoleum. Cover shoulders and knees. :womanintunic:
Hire a Local Guide
Navigate the medina easily and avoid unwanted attention by hiring an official local guide. :walking: :man_detective:
Admire from Outside
Non-Muslims cannot enter. Appreciate the beautiful exterior and surrounding architecture. :camerawithflash:
Be Aware of 'Guides'
Be cautious of unofficial guides offering services; they can be persistent. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Respectful Dress Code
Dress modestly when visiting the area around the mausoleum. Cover shoulders and knees. :womanintunic:
Hire a Local Guide
Navigate the medina easily and avoid unwanted attention by hiring an official local guide. :walking: :man_detective:
Admire from Outside
Non-Muslims cannot enter. Appreciate the beautiful exterior and surrounding architecture. :camerawithflash:
Be Aware of 'Guides'
Be cautious of unofficial guides offering services; they can be persistent. :warning:
Photography Etiquette
Ask permission before photographing people. Focus on architectural details. :iphone:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors describe the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II area as a peaceful and spiritually significant place with beautiful architecture. While non-Muslims cannot enter, they can admire the exterior. Some note potential issues with unofficial guides and harassment in the surrounding medina.
"A peaceful historical mosque and shrine. It’s a more tolerant place than the main mosque nearby.
If you are Muslim you may be asked to donate some money."
Malath Alzoubi
"No Doubt the place is extremely beautiful. This is the mausoleum of the founder of Fez: Idris II.
The entrance is exclusive to Muslims only. Non Muslims are not allowed."
Mr Aneesh
"Very peaceful and spiritual place with just an amazing architecture and color that makes you standing and staring for hours"
youssef abady
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The mausoleum is located in the heart of Fes el-Bali, the old medina. You'll likely need to walk through the narrow alleys. Taxis can take you to the edge of the medina, from where you'll proceed on foot. Consider using a navigation app or hiring a local guide to find your way through the labyrinthine streets.
The medina can be disorienting. While the mausoleum is a significant landmark, it's best to have a map or a guide. Look for signs pointing towards the mausoleum or ask locals for directions.
Walking is the primary mode of transport within the Fes medina. The alleys are too narrow for vehicles. Be prepared for a lot of walking and wear comfortable shoes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No ticket is required for non-Muslims to admire the exterior. However, the interior of the mausoleum is exclusively for Muslims.
No, the mausoleum is a sacred site and is reserved for Muslims only. Non-Muslim visitors can appreciate its beauty from the outside.
The exterior is generally accessible during daylight hours as it's part of the bustling medina. However, specific times might vary, and it's best to visit during the day.
Yes, it's important to dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. Cover your shoulders and knees.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography of the exterior architecture is generally permitted. However, always be respectful and ask for permission before photographing people.
The surrounding alleys offer various vantage points. Look for angles that capture the intricate details of the facade and the iconic green tiles.
Drone usage is generally restricted in historical medina areas and around religious sites in Morocco. It's best to avoid flying drones to prevent issues.
🎫 🕌 Onsite Experience
Moulay Idriss II was the founder of Fez and the second ruler of the Idrisid dynasty, which played a crucial role in the Islamization of Morocco. His mausoleum is a significant pilgrimage site.
You'll find a vibrant medina atmosphere with local shops, artisans, and a sense of historical depth. The architecture of the surrounding buildings is also noteworthy.
While the medina can be lively, the area around the mausoleum is considered a spiritual and peaceful place, especially when viewed from the exterior.
Muslim visitors may be asked to donate money. As a non-Muslim visitor, you are not expected to donate, but you can offer a small contribution if you wish.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for crowds and sensory stimulation. It's a good idea to have snacks and water on hand. The experience of exploring the ancient medina can be an adventure in itself for children, offering a glimpse into a different way of life.
🕌 Muslim Visitors
Be prepared for potential donation requests, which are common at such religious sites. Dress modestly and respectfully. The mausoleum is a place of worship and reflection, so maintain a quiet demeanor during your visit.
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
+1Understand the historical context of Moulay Idriss II's role in founding Fez and establishing the Idrisid dynasty. While interior access is restricted, the surrounding medina provides a rich tapestry of historical architecture and urban planning that complements the mausoleum's significance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Moulay Idriss II
The Idrisid dynasty, though eventually overthrown, left an indelible mark on Morocco's cultural and religious landscape. The mausoleum itself, while not accessible to non-Muslims, stands as a testament to this legacy. Its presence in the heart of the Fes el-Bali medina underscores the deep historical and spiritual roots of the city, making it a place of profound significance for many.
Visitors can appreciate the mausoleum's historical importance by understanding its role in the founding of Fez and the establishment of Islamic rule in Morocco. The surrounding medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, further immerses you in the historical context of this influential era.
Architectural Splendor and Spiritual Resonance
+1The visual appeal of the mausoleum, combined with its status as a pilgrimage site, creates a unique ambiance. The surrounding medina, with its bustling souks and ancient alleyways, provides a vibrant contrast to the solemnity of the religious site. This juxtaposition offers a rich sensory experience for visitors exploring the historic heart of Fez.
For those interested in architecture and design, the mausoleum and its surroundings offer ample opportunities for photography and appreciation. The detailed craftsmanship visible on the exterior hints at the artistry and devotion invested in such sacred spaces, making it a visually rewarding experience even without interior access.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit