Fes – Morocco’s Spiritual and Cultural Capital
Fes is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and is home to one of the world's oldest universities, making it a cultural treasure.
Fes is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and is home to one of the world's oldest universities, making it a cultural treasure.
Fes, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural capital, is often called the “Athens of Africa.” Founded in the 8th century, it is one of the country’s four imperial cities and is renowned for its labyrinthine medina, centuries-old traditions, and status as a hub of Islamic learning and craftsmanship. For travelers seeking an authentic Moroccan experience, Fes is an unmissable destination.
Walking through the city feels like stepping back in time. The bustling souks, medieval architecture, and sounds of artisans at work create an atmosphere that is both vibrant and timeless. Whether you are exploring historic sites or getting lost in its narrow alleys, Fes offers a sensory journey into Morocco’s soul.
The Fes el-Bali Medina is one of the largest car-free urban areas in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its maze of over 9,000 narrow streets is filled with mosques, madrasas, fountains, and workshops. Visitors can watch skilled artisans practice age-old crafts such as leather tanning, pottery, weaving, and metalwork, just as their ancestors have for centuries.
Highlights include the Chouara Tanneries, where hides are dyed in vast, colorful vats, and the Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning example of Marinid architecture with exquisite wood and tilework. Every corner of the medina reveals another hidden gem, from spice-filled souks to quiet courtyards.
Fes is also a city of deep spirituality. It is home to the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 and recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest continually operating university. This historic institution remains a center of Islamic scholarship and intellectual life.
The city’s mosques, including the Kairaouine Mosque, add to the spiritual atmosphere, while traditional festivals, music, and Sufi rituals reflect the living culture of Morocco’s religious heritage.
While the medina is the heart of Fes, the newer districts of Fes el-Jdid and the Ville Nouvelle also offer insights into Moroccan history and modern life. The Royal Palace with its magnificent golden gates, the Jewish quarter (Mellah), and wide French-style boulevards create a fascinating contrast with the old city.
From Fes, travelers can also enjoy day trips to nearby highlights, such as the Roman ruins of Volubilis, the holy town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, and the blue streets of Chefchaouen.
