Do you know what a zagüía is? As we have been doing in this blog, where we have explained the keys to constructions as iconic as the kasbahs or riads, we dedicate a few lines to tell you what this unique architectural type consists of, of which Morocco has interesting examples.
Zagüía: Hermitage, Marabout, Madrasa…?
The zagüía, also written as zauía or zawiya, is a type of construction very characteristic of the Maghreb and, in particular, of Morocco. It has a profound religious character, linked to Sufism (the most mystical branch of Islam) and combines the functions of several institutions.
For example, that of marabout, as they are usually erected around the tomb of a saint or scholar of Islam, venerated locally. It can also be compared to a hermitage, as it is also used as a place of worship. But in addition, part of its structure is used as a hospedería, even as a monastery, as the religious people who stay here retreat spiritually while residing here.
On the other hand, it develops functions similar to the madrasa, the Koranic schools, although with the difference that here only basic education is given, while in the madrasa higher studies are taught.
On the other hand, it is advisable not to confuse the zagüía with the rábidas, which are fortified Maghrebi monasteries, since they not only fulfilled a religious function but also a military one, which does not happen in the zagüías.
Unfortunately for travelers, the zagüías of Morocco are generally not open to visitors: these are places of worship and retreat that have their doors tightly closed. Therefore, tourists (whether Muslim or of another religion) are prohibited from entering the premises. There may be a few exceptions, for which it is necessary to get in touch with those responsible for its management. However, knowing its existence and mission may be interesting for travelers more attracted by the local culture and religion.
Interesting Zagüías in Morocco
Without a doubt, the most outstanding zagüía is that of Moulay Idris: the tomb of this character, venerated near Meknes and Fez for having been the founder of the Idrisid dynasty (Idris I), led to the construction of a large religious site and an entire city around it. This zagüía is also of great architectural and artistic interest, due to its genuine local style, with green tiles and whitewashed walls.
Another notable zagüía is that of Sidi Muhammad Ben Sliman al-Jazuli in Marrakech: this scholar, considered one of the seven saints of Marrakech, was an important Sufi scholar and wali of the Saadi era, who founded this complex in the 16th century. Its decoration of carved wood, stucco reliefs and tile panels (zellige) show the refinement and importance of this religious site at the time and which is still valid. Given its historical character and its proximity to other tourist destinations, limited entry to certain areas of the complex is sometimes allowed.
These are not the only zagüías in Morocco, far from it. Another that also has a monumental air is that of Tamgrut, in the Draa Valley (Zagora region), around the tomb of Sidi Mohammed Ben Nassir and his successors (Nasiriyya dynasty).
In other countries in the area, such as Algeria and Tunisia, the zagüías are also important and still in force, among which we can mention that of Kairouan. And they were also present in the Iberian Peninsula, as a result of the centuries of Muslim domination in medieval times. In this territory, practically none are preserved, but their trace can be traced in other monuments and also in the names of some localities: in Portugal they are known as azoia, a term that is usually present in the toponymy of the country.
