“A palace fit for a vizier,” the old merchant chuckled, adjusting his turban as he gestured towards the Jamau00ef Hafssa. “Or so they say.” The Jamau00ef Hafssa, a mosque with a history as intricate as the geometric patterns adorning its walls, has witnessed centuries of change in Fes. While not a palace, its namesake reflects a tale of power and intrigue. This mosque is named after Lalla Hafsa, a respected woman who dedicated her life to religion and education.
However, the “Jamau00ef” part of the name hints at a connection to the powerful Jamai family. This family, prominent during the 19th century, held significant political clout. Their most famous member, Si Mohammed ben Arbi el Jamau00ef, served as Grand Vizier to Sultan Moulay Hassan I. The Jamai family, known for their architectural patronage, might have played a role in the mosque’s construction or renovation. Although the mosque doesn’t boast the opulence of a palace, its connection to Lalla Hafsa and the whisper of the Jamai family name give it a unique place in the cultural tapestry of Fes.