Zawiya of Moulay Idriss II
Background
The zawiya of Moulay Idriss II was built using an architectural style called Alawi during the rule of Moulay Ismail. Moulay Idriss II’s father was the one who founded the Idrisid dynasty. He was a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad who fled from Abbasid controlled territory. His father was just thirty-three years old when he died. Moulay Idriss II was born in 791 and he ruled Morocco from 807 to 828 after the death of his father.
The mausoleum is regarded as an important part of Muslim worship and is often used for civic ceremonies. Non-Muslim visitors are not able to go see the saint’s grave and the sanctuary that surrounds it or the inside of the shrine. The current structure dates from 1308; a 17th century expansion added its pyramidal green roof and the medina’s tallest minaret. The streets closer to the zawiya are crossed with wooden beams just above head height. It is to keep the beasts of burden out from the area.
