Fez, one of Morocco's most enchanting cities, is a place where history breathes through every alley and courtyard. Known as the cultural and spiritual heart of Morocco, Fez offers a unique blend of medieval charm and vibrant modern life. With its labyrinthine medina, ancient universities, and stunning architecture, the city transports visitors back to a time of scholars, artisans, and sultans.
Founded in the 8th century, Fez has long been a center of learning and craftsmanship, housing the world's oldest existing university: Al Quaraouiyine. Its rich heritage is evident in its mosques, madrasas, palaces, and traditional souks. Today, the city remains a treasure trove for history lovers and cultural explorers.
1. Al Quaraouiyine University
Located in the heart of Fez’s old medina, Al Quaraouiyine University is recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Founded in 859 AD by a woman named Fatima al-Fihri, this historic institution has been a beacon of Islamic scholarship for over a thousand years.
Although entry is restricted to Muslims, visitors can still admire the university’s beautiful architecture from the outside, especially the stunning green-tiled roofs and intricately carved wooden doors. The surrounding area is also rich with historical sites, bookshops, and traditional artisans, making it a must-visit for those interested in Morocco’s intellectual and cultural legacy.
2. Bou Inania Madrasa
The Bou Inania Madrasa is one of the most impressive religious schools in Morocco, built during the 14th century by the Marinid sultan Abu Inan Faris. It is unique in that it served both as a theological college and a congregational mosque, making it one of the few madrasas in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors.
Visitors are often mesmerized by the intricate zellij tilework, hand-carved cedar wood, and majestic marble courtyard. The serene atmosphere and beautiful craftsmanship make it a peaceful escape from the bustling medina and a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture.
3. The Medina of Fez (Fes el-Bali)
Fes el-Bali, the old walled city of Fez, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest urban pedestrian zones in the world. Its maze-like streets, historic souks, hidden courtyards, and over 9,000 narrow alleyways are a living museum of Moroccan life and culture.
Visitors can explore centuries-old mosques, hammams, tanneries, and artisan workshops while getting lost (literally and figuratively) in its charm. Whether you're shopping for traditional crafts or simply soaking in the atmosphere, the medina offers a truly immersive experience.
4. Chouara Tannery
One of the oldest tanneries in the world, Chouara Tannery is a must-see for anyone visiting Fez. Located within the medina, it offers a vivid and colorful display of leather-making processes that have remained unchanged since medieval times.
From nearby terraces, visitors can observe workers standing in stone vats filled with natural dyes and liquids used to soften and color the leather. Though the smell can be strong, the sight is unforgettable, and many shops around offer products made right on-site, including bags, shoes, and jackets.
5. Dar Batha Museum
Originally a royal palace built in the 19th century, Dar Batha has been transformed into a museum that showcases traditional Moroccan arts and crafts. It is located just outside the medina and offers a peaceful environment filled with cultural treasures.
Inside, visitors will find an impressive collection of ceramics, wood carvings, calligraphy, textiles, and jewelry, many of which date back centuries. The museum's Andalusian-style garden is also a highlight, offering a calm space to relax and enjoy the beauty of Moroccan architecture and landscaping.
6. Bab Bou Jeloud (The Blue Gate)
Bab Bou Jeloud, also known as the Blue Gate, is the main western entrance to the old medina and one of the city's most photographed landmarks. Built in 1913, the gate features beautiful blue and green tilework, symbolizing Fez and Islam respectively.
The area around the gate is lively and full of shops, cafés, and restaurants. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the medina, and also a great place to sit down and watch the daily life of Fez unfold before your eyes.
7. Al-Attarine Madrasa
Located near the Al Quaraouiyine Mosque, the Al-Attarine Madrasa was built in the 14th century by the Marinid dynasty and is considered one of the most finely decorated madrasas in Morocco. It served as a religious school for students studying at the mosque.
The madrasa is renowned for its intricate zellij tiles, carved stucco walls, and cedar wood ceilings. Though small in size, its beauty is breathtaking, and it offers visitors a chance to admire the artistic and spiritual devotion of Moroccan craftsmanship.
8. Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
Housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century caravanserai, the Nejjarine Museum is dedicated to the traditional woodworking heritage of Morocco. Located near the Nejjarine Fountain in the medina, this museum offers insight into the tools, furniture, and decorative techniques used by Moroccan artisans.
The museum itself is a work of art, with its carved balconies, intricate tilework, and central courtyard. From the rooftop, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the medina, making this both an educational and visually rewarding stop.
9. Royal Palace of Fez (Dar al-Makhzen)
Although the Royal Palace of Fez is not open to the public, it remains one of the most impressive sights in the city. Its massive brass doors, framed by zellij tilework and carved cedar, are a popular photo spot for visitors and a symbol of royal Moroccan architecture.
The palace grounds cover about 80 hectares and include gardens, mosques, and administrative buildings. While you can't go inside, simply standing before its monumental gates gives a sense of the city's regal past and architectural elegance.
10. Jnan Sbil Gardens
Jnan Sbil Gardens offer a refreshing escape from the crowded streets of the medina. Located near the Royal Palace and the Batha Museum, these public gardens date back to the 18th century and were recently restored to preserve their original charm.
With tree-lined paths, fountains, and a peaceful lake, the gardens are perfect for a quiet stroll or a moment of rest. They provide a beautiful blend of nature and design, and are especially popular with families and couples seeking a bit of tranquility in the heart of the city.
Bottom line
Fez is a city that offers much more than just sightseeing — it offers an unforgettable journey through time, culture, and tradition. From the spiritual serenity of Al Quaraouiyine University to the vibrant colors of the Chouara Tannery and the peaceful beauty of Jnan Sbil Gardens, every corner of Fez tells a story.
Whether you are a history lover, an architecture enthusiast, a curious traveler, or a seeker of authentic experiences, Fez welcomes you with open arms. These ten remarkable places only scratch the surface of what this magical city has to offer. So pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to be enchanted by the soul of Morocco.