Salé’s traditional Candle Procession took place on Monday as part of the celebrations marking Eid Al Mawlid Al Nabawi, drawing large crowds to the old medina despite soaring temperatures across the city.
Residents gathered from early afternoon to watch the annual event, which is unique to Salé and combines religious and cultural traditions. It is also the only festival of its kind in the city, whose history stretches back more than a thousand years.
The procession is part of Salé’s rich historical and religious heritage. However, the city’s cultural development has received limited attention from municipal authorities, despite the potential offered by its history and heritage.
After the Al Asr prayer, large candles made from colored wax and covered with elaborate decorations are carried through the streets of the old medina. The procession starts from artisans’ homes or the local zaouia before making its way to the mausoleum of Sidi Abdellah Benhassoun.
Drums and the nafir, a traditional trumpet, accompany the procession, along with religious chants including madih and samaâ. Families, residents, and visitors line the narrow streets of the medina as the candles pass, preserving a tradition deeply associated with Salé’s history.
The tradition dates back to the reign of Saadian Sultan Ahmed El Mansour Addahbi in the late 16th century. The sultan is believed to have drawn inspiration from celebrations he witnessed in Turkey before introducing the practice to Morocco.
The Candle Procession remains one of the most recognizable traditions associated with Salé, bringing together religious celebration, local craftsmanship and popular participation. Even under the scorching heat, large crowds turned out for an event that continues to hold a special place in the city’s cultural heritage.
