Fes Things to Do

This dates back to the 800s! It was built by a refugee from Tunisia for fellow refugees. For centuries it has been highly regarded as a centre for Islamic studies.

Again, not open to non-Muslims, but you can see in the gate!

This is the mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II - the son of the founder of the country's first dynasty - and a highly significant place for all Moroccans.

Although it may have been his father, he is often credited with founding the city.

Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter, but you can (as I did) take a picture from the entrance.

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A medersa is just a school - let's not forget that!

This one is beautiful, between the mosaic tiles and the intricately carved cedar.

Currently being restored (with UNESCO help, if I remember well).

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As I had left myself a bit short of time to "do my own thing" in exploring the medina, my riad manager helped me to organise a 3 hour guided tour - my own guide for 250 mad.

In almost all respects it was a smart move. I learned a lot and saw a lot, plus no time was wasted getting lost!

I saw the tanneries, the Medersa Bouanania, the Zawiyya Moulay Idriss II, the Kairaouine mosque, a couple of souks, as well as being subjected to the hard sell in carpet, leather, metalwork & antique places.

The latter were the downsides. I don't like paying a guide to take me to his favourite haunts so he can pick up commissions.

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Also known as the Museum of Moroccan Art, and the Museé du Batha.

It was originally built as a Hispano-Moorish palace over 100 years ago. The building and garden are worth seeing in themselves. You come out of the bustle of medina into this oasis of calm.

Cost 10 Mad for entry – it won’t take you long to get round.

Exhibits include carpets, pottery, jewellery etc.

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Moulay Idriss II was the founder of Fez and the mausoleum where he is buried is in the centre of Fez. He died in 791. The Mausoleum which was built in the 18th century and restored during the 19th century, it is the most venerated in Morocco. Non-Muslims cannot enter unfortunately.

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The Mellah is the old Jewish quarter of Fes and it was in this city that the first official mellah was established in 1438. It is set within walls near the Royal Palace for protection from the Muslim population.

The Jewish population in the Mellah came close to annihilation in 1465 when the Merinid Dynasty was overthrown. Prior to this time the Jewish population had been protected within the Mellah. The name Mellah comes from the word salt. Today the old quarter is mainly inhabited by Muslims.

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Built between 1350 and 1355, this is the largest Medrassa every built by the Merinids and the most highly decorated. The Sultan Abou Inan was actually the one that ordered the construction. The complex incorporates a mosque, school and students residence. It is the only Medrassa in all of Morocco which has a pulpit and minaret.