Moulay Driss Zerhoun Moussem

Moulay Driss Zerhoun Moussem is an annual religious festival held in the town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun in Morocco. It celebrates the life and legacy of Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the city and a revered figure in Moroccan history.

During the Moussem, pilgrims from all over Morocco and beyond gather to pay their respects at the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss I, participate in traditional rituals, and enjoy cultural performances and local cuisine.

Moulay Idris Zerhoun is a town of national importance. Perched atop two green hills in the cradle of the mountains, it is relatively undiscovered by tourists.

The town was founded by Moulay Idriss in the 8th century. Many Moroccans pilgrimage to this town in August of each year to pay homage to its founder. Some call the town, Morocco’s Mecca.

As a 6th generation descendant of the Prophet Muhammad, Moulay Idriss Zerhoun is one of Morocco’s most revered spiritual leaders.

According to history, Moulay Idriss left Mecca in the 8th century to escape the Baghdad-based Abbasid caliphate. He ended up in Volubilis, Morocco, and began spreading Islam by converting the local population. Moroccans consider him to be the founder of Morocco’s first Islamic dynasty, the Idrisid Dynasty. He ruled from AD 788 to 791. He got a lot accomplished in that short time period.

Due to its sacred nature, non-Muslims were forbidden to enter the town until 1912. It wasn’t until 2005, that the town was opened by King Mohamed VI to non-Muslims for overnight stays.

This charming picturesque town is a nice stop as its pace is quite relaxing. Because of its slow start in tourism, it is still possible to glimpse Moroccan life somewhat undisturbed by Western influence.