Mosquée Anakhil مسجد النخيل

Slipping through the Fes el Bali’s labyrinthine alleys, did you ever imagine stumbling upon a mosque whispered to have housed a mystic? Right here, nestled within the Ain al-Kheil neighborhood, stands the Mosquée Anakhil, also known as the al-Azhar Mosque. Don’t confuse it with its grand namesake in Cairo. This Mosquée Anakhil holds its own unique charm. In the late 12th century, under the Almohad dynasty’s reign, the Mosquée Anakhil first graced this vibrant neighborhood. Its name, Ain al-Kheil, translates to “Spring of the Horse,” evoking images of a bygone era. Now, this mosque offers more than just a glimpse into the past. It whispers tales of Ibn Arabi, a renowned Sufi master from al-Andalus. During the late 1190s, Ibn Arabi frequently sought solace within these very walls, using the Mosquée Anakhil as his personal sanctuary for prayer and meditation. Imagine him here, lost in contemplation, drawing inspiration from the mosque’s tranquil atmosphere. The Mosquée Anakhil stands apart from other mosques in Fes. It boasts not one, but two prayer halls, each gracing a different story. Both adhere to the traditional hypostyle design, rows of columns supporting the elegant horseshoe arches. A courtyard, complete with a refreshing fountain, adds to the serenity, a feature often found in Moroccan mosques. Furthermore, Mosquée Anakhil showcases a rare architectural gem: an octagonal minaret. This stands in stark contrast to the more common square minarets seen throughout Morocco. The recent history of Mosquée Anakhil includes a chapter of tragedy and restoration. In 2006, adjacent houses tragically collapsed, claiming ten lives and damaging the mosque. However, like a phoenix from the ashes, the Mosquée Anakhil underwent a meticulous restoration, led by the Moroccan Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, in partnership with the World Monuments Fund. This restoration not only repaired the physical damage but also aimed to highlight the mosque’s connection to Ibn Arabi, solidifying its place as a beacon of spiritual and historical significance. As you stand before the restored Mosquée Anakhil today, take a moment to appreciate its resilience and the enduring spirit of Fes.