The ritual ceremonies to commemorate the founder, ruler and saint of Fez, Moulay Idriss Al Azhar, started last Thursday and will continue for a week. Idriss, born in 793, founded Fez in 808 whilst residing in Sefrou. ( now thats a commute on donkey or chariot!)
The principal public spectacle is the procession of folkmusic, (Aissaouas, Hmadchas, and Gnaoua) and barakas (gifts) of animals to be slaughtered at his tomb in the heart of the medina that will takle place on Thursday 23rd, late afternoon, weaving through Bab Boujloud down through the medina.
A good spot for photographs is the roof of the cascade hotel or right at the feet of the crowd and cattle at Thamis Restaurant if your willing to keep your footing. Not for the claustrophoic spectator.
parade to the tomb of Moulay Idriss II
