5 Places You Must See When in Fez, Morocco

One of the most ancient cities in Morocco, Fez is so rich in culture, traditions, gastronomy and more, it’s often referred to as the country’s cultural capital. With one of the first universities and the oldest medieval medina in the world, it has a lot of history for you to explore. Here are the 5 best things to see and do in the city.

# Al Quaraouiyine Mosque

Al Quaraouiyine, built in 859BCE by Fatima al-Fihri, is believed to be one of the oldest universities in the world. It now operates as a mosque and cannot be entered by non-Muslims. However, its library, renovated in 2016, is open to the public, and you can get a glimpse of the impressive, handmade tilework dating back to the 9th century. You can also get a perfect view of the mosque courtyard from the rooftops of nearby restaurants in the medina.

# Dar Batha

Located in the medina, Dar Batha a former palace that was turned into a museum in 1915, has an amazing collection of traditional artefacts. It has a fantastic Andalusian-style garden at its entrance, with varying types of plants, aromas and sounds, plus mosaics and a water fountain. Inside, you’ll find fine wood carvings, traditional Moroccan tiles, embroidery, carpets and even a ceramics collection from the 14th century.

# Chouara Tannery

This is the most iconic place in Fez, and the oldest tannery in the world, where they still operate as they did in medieval times. Here, men make leather in a massive tannery surrounded by houses and shops. The smell of the dyeing process can get rather intense, so take a scarf to cover your nose (or they will give you mint leaves to rub under it). This is a great place to buy your leather souvenirs.

# Medersa Bou Inania

Right at the entrance of the old medina lies the former theological college for Muslim intellectuals. Built by Sultan Bou Inan in the 14th century, it has been beautifully restored, featuring incredible mosaics, carved plaster, cedar mashrabiyas (lattice screens) and impressively large doors. The inside is splendid, with a fountain in the courtyard and endless, handcarved walls and zellij(mosaic) tilework. It also has rooms on two floors, where classes used to be taught.

# Merenid Tombs

These tombs house the skeletal remains of sultans and other royals of the Merenid dynasty. Although not intact, and most of the decorations and engravings have faded throughout the years, you can still see the authenticity of the architecture. The climb up the hill is definitely worth it for the view over the 1,200-year-old medina, especially at sunset. Just don’t stay too long after nightfall, as the descent can get difficult in the dark.