10 Best Places To Discover The Magic Of Fez Morocco

One of the most important cities, Fez Morocco, has a rich history of culture, food, and traditions. There is something about the atmosphere; its gorgeous buildings, narrow winding streets, bustling souks, tiled mosaic and the aromatic corners definitely needs a special mention. In spite of the encroachment of modern life, Fez has managed to remain quite unchanged throughout the ages, maintaining its appeal as an Imperial City. Like Marrakech and Casablanca, Fez too is a timeless city in Morocco that probably should be visited at least once. 

10 Amazing Things To See And Experience In Fez Morocco

Full of crumbling Islamic architecture and home to one of the first universities in the world, this city has a lot to offer for culture vultures. Here are 10 amazing things you absolutely cannot miss when you visit Fez Morocco:

1. Medersa Bou Inania

Located near the entrance to the old Medina of Fez (Fes el Bali) lies the Medersa Bou Inania, the only madrasa in Morocco. Built between 1350 and 1357 by the Merenid Sultan Bou Inan, it is one of the few religious buildings in the city that non-Muslims may enter. Once a theological college for Muslim intellectuals, it is filled with stunning mosaics, wooden lattice screens, fountains, and zellij tile work. It is acknowledged as the finest and the greatest example of Marinid architecture.

2. Dar Batha

Inside the Medina lies the Batha Museum which was a Hispano-Moorish summer palace built in the late 19th century. It is home to a massive collection of traditional Moroccan arts and crafts, and a fantastic Andalusian-style garden at its entrance. However, the centerpiece of the museum is the ceramics room, featuring the iconic blue Fez ceramics, colored with cobalt. It is one of the most impressive buildings in the city with a focus more on the arts and crafts of Morocco.

3. Chouara Tannery

Also located within Medina are the famous Chouara tanneries. One of the oldest tanneries in the world, here you can watch traditional medieval methods of dying and making leather products. To see dozens of stone vats filled with colorful natural dyes from above is one of the best things to do in Fez Morocco. Shops surround the tanneries selling beautiful leather products. While the smell can get quite intense, it is definitely worth a visit if you are curious and can tolerate the smell. 

4. The Merenid Tombs And Borj Nord

For an unparalleled view of the Fes el Bali, head to the steep hills of Borj Nord. Perched atop the hill is the impressive Arms Museum. It features a collection of rare antique weapons from around the world. Further up lie the golden-stoned Merenid Tombs. Although now in ruins, it offers spectacular views of the 1200-year-old Medina, especially at sunset.

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5. Nejjarine Museum Of Wooden Arts And Crafts

Celebrating traditional wooden crafts, this museum houses a diverse collection of old tools and splendid wooden objects, including carved doors, ornate chests and cabinets, lattice screens, prayer beads, and musical instruments. Once an inn for traveling traders and merchants, the building itself, with its stucco detailing, is a work of art.

6. The Al Quaraouiyine Mosque

Built in 859 CE by Fatima al-Fihri, Al Quaraouiyine is believed to be one of the oldest universities in the world. Today, it functions as a mosque. While you cannot enter the mosque itself if you are non-Muslim, you can enter the recently renovated 9th-century library that is open to the public. You can also get a great view of the courtyard from the rooftops of nearby restaurants.

7. Blue Gate (Bab Bou Jeloud)

The Blue Gate in the main entrance to the old medina is one of the most important landmarks not just in Fez but the whole of Morocco. The gate is called blue because it is decorated with blue mosaic tiles from the outside, however the inside of the gate is decorated with green tiles which represent Islam. The gate serves as the grand entrance to the old city and also leads to the university, one of the oldest educational institutions in the world.

8. Al-Attarine Madrasa

Al Attarine was a 14th century Islamic school of learning for scholars. The word “Attarine” means ‘place of the perfumers’ as the madrasa is located close to a spice and perfume market. It is one of the best preserved and most beautiful madrasas in the world. Its colorful mosaic tiles, filigree plasterwork, beautiful decorations and carvings showcases the excellence of Marinid craftsmanship. Since the madrasa is no longer in use, even non-Muslims are allowed to enter and enjoy the beauty of this place. 

9. Royal Palace (Dar al-Makhzen)

Dar al-Makhzen is a Royal Palace which used to be the main residence of the sultan. The king doesn’t reside here anymore but the palace is still used by the Moroccan royal family. Due to this the palace gate is not open to the public but this location is worth checking out for its impressive exteriors. The entrance is adorned with impressive geometric patterns, floral motifs, hand painted walls and Arabic calligraphy which is simply mind-blowing. 

10. Fes el-Bali Medina

The Fes el-Bali medina is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being one of the largest car-free urban zones in the world. It is so huge that one can easily get lost in the maze that’s full of narrow lanes, bustling souks, and crumbling madrasas. It is best to experience it with a guide as navigating through over 9,000 narrow lanes is impossible for a person new to the city. 

Also Read: Have You Been To The 12 Best Cities In Morocco

Final Thoughts

Though Fez Morocco is one of the oldest cities of Morocco, it definitely is a very interesting place. Be it getting lost in the glorious medina or simply soaking in the architectural wonders, everything about Fez is magical. When you visit Fez someday, do let us know of your experience in the comment box below.

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