A Piece of History
Events
Our journey into history begins here, in Fez, one of the oldest cities in Morocco. Nestled in the heart of the kingdom, this imperial city is a treasure trove of history and spirituality. Through its winding alleys and lively squares, you will discover centuries of tradition, culture, and faith.
Celebration of Mawlid
The Mawlid al-Nabawi, celebrating the birth of Prophet Muhammad, is a joyful festival that resonates deeply in Moroccan Tijani culture. Quranic schools, rooted in this tradition, infuse a particular dimension into their educational mission during this period. Just as the medersas preserve the heritage in Fez, the Mawlid strengthens the spiritual and cultural fabric, emphasizing values of peace, tolerance, and compassion cherished by the Tijani order. By celebrating the Mawlid, one honors the wisdom and light brought by the Prophet, integrating the cultural richness of Tijaniya into this spiritual celebration.
During the Mawlid, medersas highlight Tijani culture through special teachings, Quran recitations, and community activities. Students participate in festive events and religious ceremonies that strengthen community and spiritual bonds.
Fez Sufi Culture Festival
Fez Sufi Culture Festival, 2024 edition, offers a spiritual immersion from April 20 to 26. The opening ceremony at Medersa Bouananiya inaugurates a week exploring Sufi mysticism with the theme "The Religion of Love: Mysticism and Poetry." Various events, such as roundtable discussions, exhibitions, concerts, rituals, and film screenings, explore topics ranging from the nature of the human soul to the dialogue among eminent Sufi figures. The program includes moments dedicated to Andalusian heritage, traditional Moroccan music, and Sufi rituals.
Cultural richness unfolds through a roundtable on Andalusian heritage and a concert of the art of masmoudi by the Maallmat of Meknes. The evenings come alive with Sufi rituals from different tariqas, offering an immersive experience of the spiritual dimension of Sufism.
The festival culminates with a concert paying tribute to Aïcha Redouane, presented by the Fes Opera Orchestra. The final evening concludes with a ritual of the Hamdouchiya Tariqa. Some events are free, while others may require an entrance fee. Check the official website (www.festivalculturesoufie.com) for details and updates, as the program is subject to possible changes.
Medina Festival
The Festival of World Sacred Music in Fes, an annual event, embodies a unique celebration of cultural and spiritual diversity. Bringing together artists from around the world, it provides a platform where sacred melodies resonate in the heart of Fes's old Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
This event transcends geographical and religious boundaries, showcasing the inherent beauty and unity in sacred music. The medersas, Quranic schools, hold a special place, becoming centers of cultural convergence where spiritual music enriches Fes's educational heritage.
At the heart of the festival, medersas like Bou Inania and Attarine open their doors to unique musical performances, creating a symbiosis between historical architecture and timeless melodies. These places become vibrant stages where echoes of sacred chants resonate in the courtyards, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Students from the medersas actively participate, highlighting the importance of musical culture in Fes's spiritual fabric. Special teachings, Quranic recitations, and community activities blend with melodious notes, forming a holistic experience for participants.
In summary, the Festival of World Sacred Music in Fes offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the richness of spiritual diversity through music. The medersas, guardians of the educational heritage, contribute to the preservation and transmission of this unique experience through generations.