About
The Mellah is the historic Jewish quarter of Fez, set within the walled district of Fès el-Jdid in Morocco's Fez-Meknes region. It is also known as the Jewish Quarter of Fez or the Mellah de Fès, and it remains one of the oldest mellahs in the country, established in the 14th century.
What to see
The quarter is worth a slow walk for its architecture. Its houses are known for their distinctive balconies, which give the streets a character that sets them apart from the rest of the medina. Among the places of interest are:
- A historic synagogue, a reminder of the community that has shaped this part of the city for centuries.
- A Jewish cemetery, a quiet place that reflects the long presence of the community in Fez.
- The balconied houses lining its lanes, which are the most visible feature of the neighbourhood.
Planning your visit
The Mellah suits visitors interested in the history of Jewish life in Morocco and in the urban fabric of older Moroccan cities. Because it lies within Fès el-Jdid, it is easy to combine with other parts of the old city, and the wider Fez area offers a range of historic sites to explore alongside it. Allow time to wander rather than rushing between points, and treat the synagogue and cemetery with the respect due to active places of heritage and memory.
