AlKaraouine

Al-Qarawiyyin is a university and mosque located in Fes, Morocco. Founded in 859 CE by Fatima al-Fihri, it is widely considered by many historians to be the oldest existing, continuously operating educational institution in the world. Initially established as a mosque with an adjacent madrasa, it quickly evolved into a significant center of learning and intellectual activity in the Islamic world.

The curriculum at Al-Qarawiyyin encompassed a broad range of subjects, including religious sciences, law, rhetoric, logic, and medicine. Scholars and students from across North Africa and the Middle East were drawn to its esteemed faculty and comprehensive library. Over centuries, it played a crucial role in the intellectual and cultural development of the region, contributing to advancements in various fields of knowledge.

Al-Qarawiyyin was integrated into Morocco's modern state university system in 1963. Today, it continues to function as an important religious and educational institution, offering degrees in Islamic studies and other related disciplines. Its historical significance is recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records for its long-standing educational legacy. The complex itself is a significant architectural landmark in the medina of Fes.