Flight Search : Kuala Lumpur - Cassablanca - Kuala Lumpur

In a world where time seems to move ever forward, there are places that stand as timeless bastions of wisdom and enlightenment. These are the world's oldest universities, where the echoes of scholars and visionaries from centuries past still resonate through the hallowed halls.

North Africa's Legacy of Learning

Our journey begins in the sun-kissed lands of North Africa, where the ancient city of Tunis holds the illustrious Ez-Zitouna University - Tunis, Tunisia. Established in 737 during the Umayyad Caliphate, Ez-Zitouna stands as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. From its humble beginnings within the Al-Zaytuna Mosque to its modern-day status as a center of Islamic scholarship, Ez-Zitouna has remained a beacon of knowledge for over a thousand years.

Al-Zaytuna Mosque, Tunis

Further west, nestled amidst the labyrinthine streets of Fes, Morocco, lies the Al Quaraouiyine University. Founded in 859 by the visionary Fatima al-Fihri, Al Quaraouiyine holds the distinction of being the world's first degree-awarding educational institution. Its sprawling campus and intricate architecture serve as a testament to Morocco's rich cultural heritage and commitment to academic excellence.

Al Quaraouiyine University, Fes

The Heart of Africa: Sankore Mosque and University, Timbuktu

Our journey takes an unexpected turn as we venture deep into the heart of Africa, to the ancient city of Timbuktu. Here, amidst the vast expanse of the Sahara Desert, lies the Sankore Mosque and University — the fourth oldest university in the world. Founded in 989, the Sankore Mosque was transformed into a madrasah by the illustrious ruler Mansa Musa, often described as the wealthiest person in history.

Sankore Mosque, Timbuktu

At its zenith, the Sankore Madrasah was a beacon of knowledge and learning, attracting scholars and students from across the Islamic world. With a reported 25,000 students in a city of 100,000, the madrasah boasted one of the largest libraries in the world, housing manuscripts and texts that spanned centuries of intellectual inquiry.

Egypt's Ancient Treasures

Venturing across the sands of the Sahara, we arrive in the land of the pharaohs, where the iconic Al-Azhar University in Cairo, Egypt, beckons.

Al-Azhar University, Cairo

Established in 970 during the Fatimid Caliphate, Al-Azhar has been a cornerstone of Islamic scholarship for over a millennium. From its inception as a center for Quranic studies to its expansion into a renowned institution of higher learning, Al-Azhar has played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual landscape of the Muslim world.

Türkiye: Where East Meets West

Our final destination brings us to the crossroads of continents, where the ancient city of Istanbul stands as a testament to the confluence of cultures.

Istanbul University

Here, amidst the bustling streets and bustling bazaars, lies Istanbul University, founded in 1453. With its majestic architecture and storied history, Istanbul University serves as a fitting finale to our journey through the world's oldest universities.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on our journey through time and intellect, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of these venerable institutions. From the dusty streets of North Africa to the vibrant markets of Istanbul, the world's oldest universities stand as monuments to humanity's eternal quest for knowledge and enlightenment. May we continue to be inspired by their legacy as we embark on our own journeys of discovery in the modern world.