Things You'll Need:
- All four parts (I-IV) of this article series
- A Medina Map of Fez
- A camera
- Ability to dodge donkey carts, fore and aft
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Step 1
Know The Historic Ruler:
The imperial history of Fez begins with a ruler, Idriss I, who felt the need to create an absolutely resplendent and extravagant capital city to reflect the greatness of his reign.
Idriss I was the founder of the first Moroccan imperial dynasty and he felt that Volubilis was no longer a grand enough capital for him. Instead, he needed a city whose enthralling architecture and gorgeous craftsmanship would leave him with an unparalleled legacy in Morocco.
Although Idriss I died before his grandiose plans for his capital city of Fez were implemented, his son Idriss II carried them out and has left in his wake one of the most beautiful and exotic North African cities in existence. -
Step 2
Fez MoroccoWhere To Begin:
Start out your day in Fez by heading “Fez el Bali” (the Old), as opposed to “Fez el Jadid” (the New). First stop will be the Andalusian quarter; in 818, numerous Muslims were expelled from Andalusia in Spain and ended up in Fez. As they were coming from a Spanish Islamic civilization that was at its cultural peak, they brought with them to Fez the architectural styles and designs that they knew from Andalusia. As such, the Andalusian quarter is an enticing mix of colors, shapes and tiles. Explore the numerous palaces built by these Spanish exiles and admire the intricate geometrical designs that cover their ceilings.
The el Sehri Medersa is a must-see in this quarter – constructed in 1321, the religious school is characterized by so much beautiful tiling that an hour is required simply to appreciate the depths of intricacy involved in its complex designs. Other fabulous medrasas that merit a visit are: the Seffarine Medersa (built in 1270 and whose minaret contains fantastically colored zellige) and the Sahrij Medersa (a 14th century school containing a lovely pool in the courtyard and featuring intricate wooden carvings). -
Step 3
Fez, Again (Aerial) of TanneryWhere To Go Next:
Upon leaving the Andalusian quarter, stop and have a café crème in a café, and maybe even a take a moment to munch on a croissant – Fez is so full of sights and history that for the Moroccan adventurer who really wants to experience it all, it is necessary to fuel up throughout the day!
Once you are nice and full, head into the old medina and wander through the numerous souks (be sure to visit the world-reknowned tannery) before stopping at Sultan Moulay Abd al-Aziz's summer palace, which now houses the Batha Museum. Take the time to wander inside the museum and see the everyday items that made up the life of an 18th century Fassi citizen. The museum is a fascinating glimpse into the old Fassi way of life, and the clothing, jewelry and musical instruments it contains will bring old Fez alive in your imagination. -
Step 4
The Jewish QuarterAfter The Museum:
Upon leaving the museum, head to one of the old Jewish quarters of the city known as Lihoudi. While Jews no longer make up a large part of the Fassi population, ancient Fez was home to a prosperous and growing Jewish population.
Idriss II let in a many Andalusian Jews to Fez in 808; today there are no functioning synagogues, but a number of them are being restored. There are numerous architectural treasures in the quarter, however.
For example, make your way to the el-Makoudi Mosque, which is one of the only mosques in the city to not have a minaret. The mosque has a particularly beautiful fountain, which is coated with sand and lime. -
Step 5
End of Fez Tour:
End the day with a visit to one of the oldest hammams in Fez, the Seffarine Hammam in the medina. This traditional Moroccan hammam has separate rooms for men and women, and is a great way to scrub yourself down after a day of sightseeing.
For the bargain price of only 40 Moroccan dhirams (around 6 USD or 4 Euros), you can bathe yourself in a beautiful domed room, engaging in a timeless Moroccan cleansing activitity. The Seffarine Hammam is one of a number of mosques in the Arab world that have been restored by the Venice Institute for Urban Sustainability – if you head out to adventure after your Moroccan journey, check out their restored hammams in Gaza, Tunis, and Damascus as well!
