Al-Attarine Madrasa | Fes

Information

Landmark: Al-Attarine Madrasa
City: Fes
Country: Morocco
Continent: Africa

Al-Attarine Madrasa, Fes, Morocco, Africa

The Al-Attarine Madrasa is an Islamic school located in Fes, Morocco. It is situated within the Fes el-Bali medina.

Visual Characteristics

Constructed primarily from zellij tilework, carved stucco, and cedar wood, the madrasa features intricate geometric patterns and Arabic calligraphy. The central courtyard is paved with marble and surrounded by arcades. The prayer hall exhibits a mihrab adorned with elaborate plasterwork. The building's height is approximately two stories.

Location & Access Logistics

The Al-Attarine Madrasa is located off Talaa Kebira street in the Fes el-Bali medina. Access is on foot, as the medina is a pedestrian zone. The nearest parking is at Bab Bou Jeloud, approximately a 10-minute walk away. No specific bus lines serve the immediate vicinity; access is via walking through the medina's alleyways.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Al-Attarine Madrasa began in 1323 CE and was completed in 1325 CE under the Marinid Sultan Abu Said Uthman II. It was built to provide accommodation and education for students studying at the nearby Al-Qarawiyyin University. The purpose was religious and educational instruction.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the detailed tilework and stucco carvings in the prayer hall and student cells. Photography of the architectural elements is permitted. The central courtyard offers a space for quiet contemplation of the design. Guided tours are available from local guides within the medina.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available within the madrasa complex. Limited shaded areas are present in the courtyard. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the medina, though it can be intermittent inside the building. Food vendors are located on the main thoroughfares of the medina, a short walk from the madrasa.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is mid-morning when natural light illuminates the courtyard. The best months for visiting are generally from March to May and September to November, avoiding the summer heat and winter rain. No tide considerations apply.

Facts & Legends

A specific detail of interest is the inscription above the entrance, which details the date of construction and the patron. It is said that the madrasa was funded by a wealthy spice merchant, hence its name "Al-Attarine" (the spice sellers).