Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

Moulay Idriss Zerhoun is the holiest city in Morocco — and one of the least visited. The white mountain village, picturesquely situated on two hills above the Zerhoun massif, houses the tomb of Moulay Idriss I, the great-grandson of the Prophet Mohammed and founder of the first Moroccan dynasty (788 AD). Five pilgrimages to Moulay Idriss are considered equivalent to one Hajj to Mecca — accordingly, the place is sacred to Moroccans.

What to Expect

The village itself is a labyrinth of white houses climbing the hills. The Zaouia (the shrine complex around the tomb) is off-limits to non-Muslims — a wooden barrier marks the boundary. But the atmosphere of the village itself is the real charm: narrow alleys, friendly residents, hardly any tourists, a weekly market on Saturday, and from the viewpoints, a panoramic view over olive groves to the ruins of Volubilis.

Accommodation

Since 2005, non-Muslims have been allowed to stay overnight in Moulay Idriss (previously it was forbidden). There are now some charming guesthouses: Dar Zerhoune (rooftop terrace with panoramic view, from 500 MAD/night) and Scorpion House (former cinema, creatively converted, from 600 MAD/night). A night here is an authentic experience away from tourism — in the evening, the village belongs to you.