The Zaouia d’Assa is one of the oldest zaouias in the desert, founded by the resistance sheikh “Iza Wahidi”. It has become a favorite place for students from various African countries to memorize the Quran and study Islamic sciences as well as grammar and rhetoric. The “Moussem de la Zaouia d’Assa” – “Mélaka des Justes” – is celebrated every year at the same time as the anniversary of the Prophet’s birth, around scattered tombs that contain the remains of 366 saints.
At one time, the Zaouia d’Assa was considered a cultural center, housing more than one school where students learned. It maintained religious and political authority for over 700 years, and established spiritual links with many other zaouias in southern Morocco, such as Tamegroute, Tamdoul, near Aqqa, Mghimma and Tiznit.
The Zaouia of Assa played an important role in promoting integration and cooperation within the palace community. It collected tithes and alms, which were then redistributed to the needy and seekers of knowledge. The moussem of the zaouia is the most obvious reflection of solidarity and cooperation.