Things to do in Fez
When travellers visit Fez, not only do they encounter a busy Moroccan city, they also travel 1,000 years back in time. The modern world has barely intruded into the warren that makes up the medieval medinas (old quarter) of this ancient city, and most of the main tourist attractions can be found here.
Several gates allow entry to the ancient town of Fez. Bab Bou Jeloud, the western gate, has bright decorations and hotels and cafes grouped around it; Bab Er Rsif is the central gate, opening onto the square in front of the mosque of the same name; Bab el-Ftouh is the southeast gate giving onto the cemeteries; and Bab Guissa, the north gate, lies on the hillside close to the Merenid tombs vantage point. The principal entrance for tourists is the Bab Bou Jeloud, which was constructed in the modern era in 1913 but appears older because of its tiled facade.
Anyone in love with tales of Aladdin, Ali Baba and the Arabian Nights will be drawn to holiday in Fez, but the reality of the sights, sounds and smells may come as a shock to visitors. However, there is certainly beauty to be found. Travellers willing to plunge into the sensory overload will be richly rewarded, but should engage the services of a tour guide.
Karaouine Mosque
The al-Karaouine Mosque, located in the heart of the Fes El Bali (Medina), was founded in 859 with an associated madrassa (school) that subsequently grew to become one of the leadi…
Karaouine Mosque
The al-Karaouine Mosque, located in the heart of the Fes El Bali (Medina), was founded in 859 with an associated madrassa (school) that subsequently grew to become one of the leading educational and spiritual centres in the Islamic world. Today it's called the University of al-Karaouine and is incorporated into the modern university system of the country.
According to UNESCO it is the oldest continually operating educational institution in the world. The mosque itself is enormous (one of the largest in Morocco) and beautiful, although austere, with many striking features. It is considered the most sacred mosque in the country and the timing of Islamic festivals across Morocco is determined here.
Meknes
Meknes, located just 37 miles (60km) from Fez, is the least-visited of Morocco's Imperial Cities, and this is exactly what draws discerning travellers to discover its considerable …
Meknes
Meknes, located just 37 miles (60km) from Fez, is the least-visited of Morocco's Imperial Cities, and this is exactly what draws discerning travellers to discover its considerable charms. A city brimming with history but mercifully short on chaos, Meknes is the ideal destination for those looking to explore Morocco's rich, imperial past at a reasonable and measured pace. The city of Meknes was the brainchild of Moulay Ismail (ruler of Morocco for an incredible 55 years, between 1672 and 1727), who sought to construct a city fine enough to rival any in Europe. Today the city has a wonderfully preserved medina area and a collection of great souks that can be navigated without the need for a tour guide.