Fez Sightseeing – Things To See In Fez
Fez SightSeeing And Things To See In Fez:
Fez city is the oldest of Morocco’s four imperial cities, it was founded on the banks of the Wadi Fès by Idrīs I (east bank, about 789) and Idrīs II (west bank, about 809). The two parts were united by the Almoravids in the 11th century to become a major Islamic city. Fès reached its zenith as a centre of learning and commerce under the Marīnids in the mid-14th century and has kept its religious primacy through the ages. The Treaty of Fès (March 30, 1912) established the French protectorate in Morocco.
The city is almost completely surrounded by low hills covered with olive groves and orchards. The ancient battlements of Fès, flanked by stone towers, still partly enclose the old city, which is known as the Fès el-Bali. The old city contains the 9th-century Qarawīyīn Mosque and is the seat both of a famous Islamic university (founded 859) and of the Sidi Mohammed ibn Abdellah University (founded 1974); it is also the sanctuary (zāwiyah) of Idrīs I and houses the tomb of Idrīs II. The old city contains a number of well-preserved funduqs (caravansaries). The Fès el-Jedid (New Fès) section of the city, founded in the 13th century by the Marīnids, contains the Royal Palace and the adjoining Great Mosque, which is noted for its 13th-century polychrome minaret. Just south of the Royal Palace is the Mellah, or Jewish quarter; many of the Jewish goldsmiths, silversmiths, and jewelers who once lived there immigrated to Israel in the decades following the founding of the Jewish state (1948). The modern section of the city, the Ville Nouvelle, lies on a plateau to the southwest; it was founded by Marshal L.-H.-G. Lyautey of France in 1916. The city’s industrial quarter is in this district, near the railway station.
Fes is a centre for trade and traditional crafts, and until the late 19th century it was the only place in the world where the fez (brimless red felt hat in the shape of a truncated cone) was made. Most of the city’s traditional crafts, such as leatherwork and pottery making, are practiced in the narrow, winding streets of the old city and are sold in that section’s traditional marketplaces, or sūqs. Tourism is a major industry in Fès. The old city was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981. Fès has an international airport. The area in which Fès is situated produces cereals (primarily wheat), beans, olives, and grapes; sheep, goats, and cattle are also raised. Pop. (2004) 946,815; (2014) 1,091,512.
Fez SightSeeing And Things To See In Fez?
The Bou Inania Madrasa is an iconic religious building in the center of the medina. The building, constructed in the 14th century, was once a school. However, now its extraordinary architecture is on display to the public. Explore its magnificent marble courtyard, intricate wood carvings, and endless mosaic tilework in a variety of greens. Continuing the color theme is the adjoining mosque, with its breathtaking green minaret that is visible across the medina. There’s no doubt that this madrasa is the grandest in the city! Don’t miss out on this great thing to do in Fes.
The Chouara Tannery is the busiest and largest tannery among the four historic tanneries of Fez. It is also the oldest tannery in the world. Operating in the medina, the tannery is home to leather produced from sheep, cows, goats, and other such animals. Here, the skins are scraped, cured, stretched, and dyed in several honeycombed earth pits. This process of tanning initially came into existence in the 13th century. The skins and hides undergo an array of procedures, as stated above. In addition, the city as a whole is quite an appealing attraction for tourists.
From cobblestone streets, small yet fascinating houses, magnificent buildings, and never-ending views, the Chouara tannery is quite an exquisite place to visit.
The Kairaouine Mosque is known to be the world’s oldest university and it is also the second-largest mosque in Morocco. It is one of the most important religious buildings in Fes and as such, only Muslims are allowed inside. Although tourists can’t access the interior, you can take a glimpse through several of the entrance gates. See the stunning marble courtyard, fountains, arches, tiles, and carvings. Not only this but see many people praying in this holy building, which still operates as a university!
Medina Fez Sightseeing and things to see in Fez. The medina of Fes (Fez el Bali) is the oldest and largest of North Africa and dates back to the 9th century! Because of its historical significance, and cultural importance, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s easy to see why when you see how well the ancient charms of the medina have been preserved. Discover the roots of Fes by wandering the thousands of alleys here and enjoy the largest car-free urban area in the world!
Because of its narrow streets, it is very easy to get lost, something we experienced ourselves a few times. Make sure to know which signs you should follow before you leave your riad or hotel because even Google Maps can find it hard to navigate in this maze.
