Al-Qarawiyyin University: The World’s Oldest Operating University

Al-Qarawiyyin University

Hidden in the heart of Fez, Morocco’s ancient medina lies a historical and intellectual treasure: Al-Qarawiyyin University. Known as the oldest continuously operating degree-granting university in the world, it represents not only a cornerstone of Islamic education but also a symbol of intellectual leadership that shaped both Eastern and Western thought.

A Legacy Founded by a Visionary Woman

The story of Al-Qarawiyyin begins in 859 AD, with a woman named Fatima al-Fihri. Originally from a wealthy family that had migrated from Tunisia, Fatima used her inheritance to build a mosque and an accompanying school to benefit her local community. Her vision was extraordinary—not only as a woman leading such a project in the 9th century but also in her commitment to creating a space dedicated to spiritual and scientific learning.

What began as a mosque and madrasa (religious school) evolved over centuries into a university that welcomed scholars, theologians, philosophers, scientists, and poets from across the Muslim world and beyond.

An Intellectual Beacon in the Islamic Golden Age

Al-Qarawiyyin thrived during the Islamic Golden Age, a period marked by flourishing arts, science, philosophy, and medicine across the Muslim world. The university became a hub for advanced learning in disciplines such as astronomy, mathematics, medicine, law, and theology.

Its students included not only Muslims but also Christians and Jews, who came to learn from scholars such as Ibn Khaldun, the father of modern sociology and historiography, and Averroes (Ibn Rushd), a philosopher whose commentaries on Aristotle later influenced the European Renaissance.

Even Pope Sylvester II, before his papacy in the 10th century, is believed to have studied at Al-Qarawiyyin, introducing knowledge of Arabic numerals and astronomy to Europe upon his return.

Architecture and Atmosphere

Located in the historic Fez el-Bali district—one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world—Al-Qarawiyyin's architecture reflects traditional Moorish-Andalusian design. The green-tiled rooftops, intricately carved woodwork, and symmetrical courtyards evoke a sense of peace and sacredness.

The central courtyard of the mosque-university complex features a marble fountain and is surrounded by elegant arcades, while the library, renovated in recent years, holds over 4,000 rare manuscripts, including a 9th-century Qur’an written on camel skin.

The minaret, a defining feature of the structure, has guided both worshippers and scholars for over a millennium. Although access to the university's core remains limited to scholars and religious students, its beauty and historical significance continue to draw global admiration.

Modern Recognition and Continuity

In 1963, Al-Qarawiyyin was officially integrated into Morocco’s modern university system, and its curriculum was expanded beyond traditional Islamic sciences to include modern disciplines. Despite modernization, the university maintains its deep spiritual roots and continues to serve as a religious and educational institution.

In recognition of its remarkable legacy, UNESCO and the Guinness World Records acknowledge Al-Qarawiyyin as the oldest existing and continually operating educational institution in the world.

A Source of Inspiration

Al-Qarawiyyin University serves as a powerful reminder that education knows no boundaries—neither of gender, geography, nor time. It reflects the rich tradition of knowledge and scholarship in the Islamic world and its profound influence on global civilization.

In a time when the value of education and the role of women in history are increasingly celebrated, Fatima al-Fihri’s legacy stands tall. Her story, and the institution she founded over 1,100 years ago, continue to inspire generations of thinkers, educators, and dreamers.