Fes

A Living Medieval City — Heart of Moroccan Culture

Fes, often called the spiritual and cultural capital of Morocco, is a city unlike any other. Founded in the 9th century, Fes el-Bali — the old medina — is the world's largest car-free urban area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has remained remarkably unchanged for over a millennium. Walking its narrow streets feels like stepping back in time, where the rhythms of daily life continue as they have for centuries.

The city is home to the University of Al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859 AD and widely considered the world's oldest continuously operating university. The Bou Inania Madrasa, the Attarine Medersa, and countless mosques and fountains showcase the pinnacle of Moroccan-Andalusian architecture, with intricate stucco carvings, geometric zellige tilework, and soaring carved cedar wood.

Fes is also the undisputed center of Moroccan craftsmanship. The city's famous tanneries — where leather has been dyed in the same stone vats using the same techniques for over 600 years — are among the most photographed sights in all of Morocco. Artisans here practice pottery, weaving, metalwork, and woodcarving passed down through generations.

Top Experiences in Fes

1. Chouara Tannery

Witness the ancient leather-making process from the terraces of surrounding shops, where hides are soaked in white lime pits before being dyed in vibrant colors of saffron yellow, poppy red, and indigo blue.

2. Fes el-Bali Medina

Navigate the 9,400 streets and alleyways of the old medina, discovering hidden mosques, artisan workshops, neighborhood hammams, and authentic local restaurants serving traditional Moroccan tagines and couscous.

Things to See and Do

• Al-Qarawiyyin University and Mosque: Visit the world's oldest university, a 9th-century institution that has been a center of Islamic learning for over 1,100 years.
• Bou Inania Madrasa: Admire the exquisite Merinid-era theological school, considered a masterpiece of Moroccan Islamic architecture.
• Medersa Attarine: Explore the beautifully restored 14th-century student residence adjacent to the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, featuring stunning mosaic floors and carved stucco.
• Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen): Photograph the magnificent golden brass doors of the royal palace, one of the most iconic images of Fes.
• Borj Nord Arms Museum: Visit this 16th-century Portuguese-built fortress now housing a fascinating collection of historic weapons and artillery.
• Mellah (Jewish Quarter): Explore the historic Jewish quarter with its distinctive balconied houses and visit the beautifully restored Ibn Danan Synagogue.
• Pottery Cooperative: Watch master potters create and paint the famous blue-and-white Fassi ceramics that have made Fes renowned throughout the world.
• Guided Medina Walk: Join one of our expert local guides for an immersive walk through the medina, discovering hidden gems that most visitors never find.