About
Fes, also spelled Fez, is a city in northern Morocco and is often described as the country's cultural and spiritual heart. It is sometimes called the Cultural Capital of Morocco, and a visit here gives a clear sense of why.
A medieval city, largely intact
The old city, or medina, is UNESCO-listed and is considered Morocco's most complete medieval city. Its narrow lanes, gates and walls make the historic core feel like a place that has kept much of its original shape. Walking through it is the main way to experience Fes, and it rewards slow, unhurried wandering.
Learning and craft
Fes is home to the world's oldest continuously operating university, and that scholarly tradition sits alongside a strong artisanal one. Visitors can see traditional crafts at work in the medina's workshops and stalls.
The Chouara Tannery is among the best-known sights. Its vats of dye and leather make a striking scene, and it is a reminder of how much of the city's daily life has long depended on skilled hands.
Who the visit suits
- Visitors interested in architecture and urban history
- Those who enjoy traditional crafts and the workshops that keep them alive
- Travellers wanting an authentic view of Morocco's scholarly and artisanal past
Fes is a city to explore on foot, at a measured pace, with time set aside to look closely at the medina's details. Its combination of architecture, learning and craft makes it a rewarding stop in Morocco.
