1. Overview & History 🌟

• Founded in 789 AD by the Idrisid dynasty, Fez grew into Morocco’s medieval capital and intellectual center under the Marinids in the 13th–14th centuries. Today it is the third-largest city in Morocco, with around 1.256 million residents (2024 census) and Fessi as the local demonym

2.Medina of Fez & Urban Layout

• The Medina of Fes el‑Bali, founded in the 9th century and sprawling over 9,000 alleys, is the largest car‑free urban area in the world, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981. It houses two medina quarters: Fes el‑Bali (the original), Fes Jdid (the “new city,” Marinid era), plus the French-built Ville Nouvelle on the plateau beyond.

3. Heritage & Landmarks

🎓 Al‑Qarawiyyin University & Mosque

• Founded in 859 AD by Fatima al‑Fihri, this is recognized as the oldest continually operating university in the world. The adjoining mosque and library feature exquisite Islamic architecture. Non-Muslims may admire its grandeur from outside, while Muslims may enter.

🕌 Bou Inania & Al‑Attarine Madrasas

• Built in the 14th century under the Marinid sultans, these schools are masterful showcases of zellige tilework, carved cedar, and sculpted stucco. Bou Inania is open to non‑Muslims; Al‑Attarine lies near the spice souk.

🕋 Zawiya of Moulay Idriss II

• The mausoleum of Fez’s founder’s son. A sacred site for Muslims, richly decorated inside; visitors may view the façade if non-Muslim.

🛍️ Kissariat al‑Kifah Souk

• This prestigious bazaar central to the medina, historically rebuilt after 14th-century disasters, once prohibited to non‑Muslims and animals due to religious zoning. It’s known for artisanal luxury goods.

🏭 Chouara Tannery & Artisan Districts

• One of the oldest tanneries in the world (11th century), where hides are dyed in colourful vats—an iconic, pungent, and unforgettable sight often viewed from rooftops with mint for cover.

• Nearby Place Seffarine showcases the rhythmic forging of copperware, while the Nejjarine Museum (former caravanserai) exhibits woodworking and offers a rooftop café with medina views.

🏰 Marinid Tombs & Saadian Fortresses

• The Marinid Tombs, on a hill above Fes el‑Bali, offer scenic panoramic views, especially at sunset.

• Borj Nord and Borj Sud, both Saadian-era forts (1582), served military purposes and now house museums—Borj Nord houses the Museum of Arms with thousands of artifacts; Borj Sud is best known for its vistas over the old city.

🏰 Royal Palace (Dar al‑Makhzen)

• Dating to 1276, largely rebuilt during the ‘Alawi era, the palace complex spans some 80 hectares in Fes Jdid. Its ornate external gates at Place des Alaouites are visible, though the interior is closed to the public.

4. Culture, Crafts & Experience

• Fez remains a living medieval city, not a museum. You’ll see daily artisanal crafts—leather work, pottery, carpet‑making—active across souqs and workshops.

• The city is also famed as the original maker of the fez hat (red felt tarboush), and for its cobalt-blue pottery, crafted in traditional kilns and sold in medina souks.

5. Festivals & Community

• The city hosts the annual Fez Festival of World Sacred Music, a 10-day event in early June featuring global performances of Islamic and Christian devotional music, launched in 1994 to foster interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange.

6. Visiting Tips & Atmosphere

• Wandering the medina without a guide is popular—getting “lost” is part of the magic, aided by friendly locals if needed. Bring your hotel address for help.

• Best travel seasons: March–April and September–November, for pleasant weather and lighter crowds.

• Fez is more affordable and less commercialized than Marrakech; expect strong cultural atmosphere and everyday community life amid historic surroundings.