Fes is one of the last remaining medieval cities in the world. With an impressive history of more than a thousand years, Fez is full of bustling bazaars, crowded cafes, distinctive architecture, unusual mosques and authentic madrassas (Islamic schools). Many people do 4 Dias desde Fez a Marrakech via Desierto
So much to see and do! No wonder this northeastern city is lovingly called the cultural capital of Morocco. More than 90,000 people live in the fortified Fez el Bali alone, and walking through the chaotic pedestrian streets of the medina is like taking a trip back in time.
Royal Palace
The Dar el-Mahzen, or Royal Palace, built in the 1960s, is one of Fez’s most striking landmarks with its landscaped gardens and golden doors decorated with huge brass knobs. As a tourist, you unfortunately cannot explore the palace grounds, but you can view it through one of seven gates decorated with tile and carved cedar wood. The Royal Palace, despite being closed, remains one of the most visited historical sites in Morocco.
The castle has a 14th-century madrasa for the study of the Koran, various mosques, and a museum containing a Carthaginian tomb and necropolis. Many ancient Moroccan artifacts, from Rabat carpets to handmade earthenware and historical manuscripts, are hidden behind the impressive facade.
Aben Danan Synagogue
The Alain Danan Synagogue was built in the mid-17th century by Mimoun Ben Sidan, a wealthy merchant from the city of Ait Ishak, to serve 1,600 Jewish families who had been relocated to Fez from Spain.
The church entices travelers with its bright tiles, turquoise columns, embroidered veils and sparkling chandeliers. Check out Elijah’s chair (used for the circumcision ritual), the original deerskin Torah scrolls and the mikvah (ritual bath) in the basement.
Borge North
Borj Nord is an ancient fortress in Fez located on top of a hill overlooking the medina and its famous Bab Bujeloud. Built in the late 16th century by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour to monitor his people, it has been operating as a museum since 2016.
Today, Borj-Nord has a diverse collection of about 5,000 weapons scattered through 13 rooms. There’s everything here! From swords and rifles to ancient muskets. The 12-ton cannon used in the infamous 16th century Battle of the Three Kings is the main exhibit. There is also an amazing panoramic view of the city from the north tower.
Merenid Tombs
This is the name given to the remains of an ancient 14th century necropolis that once towered over Fez. These tombs were built during the Marinid dynasty to serve as the last resting place of the royal family. Although they were once truly magnificent–with gleaming marble and striking epitaphs–what remains after years of looting is rather mediocre.
But that’s not what would make a tourist go up the mountain to the Merenidean tombs. They are definitely worth a look though! In fact, thousands of travelers come here for the view of Fez el Bali below. Here you can view the city, as well as the hills dotted with artificial caves where the locals actually live. You can also make a Trip to Morocco to visit other important cities in Morocco.
Kairauyn Mosque
The Kairaouin Mosque is the second largest and one of the largest mosques in Morocco. With its green triangular roof and two historic minarets (one of which is the oldest Islamic monument in Fez), it is one of the most iconic architectural monuments in Fez.
The church was built in 859 by a Tunisian refugee woman. The original building has been expanded several times and can now hold up to 20,000 people. The complex includes fountains, courtyards and a library, one of the oldest in the world. Unfortunately, it is only open to students. The Qairaouin Mosque is also one of the oldest universities in the world, second only to Al-Azhar in Egypt. Although non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, they can admire the courtyard at the gate or from the roof of the Madrasah Al Attarin.
Al-Attarin Madrassah
This religious school, located near the spice and perfume market, is considered one of the most striking representatives of Islamic architecture. Built in the 14th century, it boasts a magnificent rectangular courtyard that overlooks a remarkable four-sided prayer hall.
With its intricately carved plasterwork, Arabic calligraphy, ringing fountain, and blue-green geometric mosaics covering the walls and floor, the inner courtyard cannot fail to impress! Visitors can also see the newly renovated student dormitories upstairs.
Nejarine Museum
It’s a museum on three floors of a restored 18th-century fondouk (an old traveler’s inn). It contains examples of fine Moroccan wood, ranging from elaborately carved doors to handmade musical instruments.
Built around an elegant central courtyard, the museum showcases the differences between traditional Amazigh styles and the typical Andalusian ornaments of Fez. Explore an intriguing collection of ancient craft tools, wooden prayer beads, old Berber castles and even traditional wedding furniture.
Bab Bujlud
Unlike many famous landmarks in Morocco, Bab Boujloud is relatively modern, as it was built only in 1913. Built during the French occupation, the cobalt blue arch with mosaic tiles is massive and attractive.
What is interesting about the Bab Bujlud Arch is that its mosaics change color from blue on the outer wall to green on the inner wall – to mark the holy color of Islam. On the other side of the gate you will find many bustling cafes and restaurants that are perfect for observing the everyday life of the locals.