Mosquée Sidi Ahmed Hajji (Sidi Ahmed Hajji Mosque), Rabat

The Sidi Ahmed Hajji Mosque, located in the Medina of Sale near the Souk Al Kabir, stands as both a religious and historical landmark. Commissioned by Sultan Moulay Ismail and completed by his son, Moulay Abdellah, the mosque serves as a tribute to Sidi Ahmed Hajji, a revered marabout and military leader of Sale.

Sidi Ahmed Hajji (d. 1691) played a crucial role in expelling the Spanish from the beaches of Mehdia, earning his reputation as a mujahid, or warrior saint. His influence on the city was profound, leading to the establishment of the mosque near his tomb, as well as a zawiya in his honor. This zawiya houses the graves of several of his notable descendants, including the affluent merchant Ahmed Hajji and his sons, Saïd Hajji and Mohamed Hajji. The mosque, named after him, remains a focal point in the heart of the Medina’s bustling souks.

A devout ascetic and follower of the Gazullah way, Sidi Ahmed Hajji was celebrated for his piety and dedication to Sale. His legacy is preserved not only through the mosque but also in the collective memory of the city, where he is honored as the last great saint of Sale. Today, the Sidi Ahmed Hajji Mosque stands as a testament to his enduring impact on the region, blending religious devotion with a rich historical narrative.