History of Fez

Fez is the oldest city of Morocco. As with other Moroccan cities it consists of two parts; the Medina and the Ville Nouvelle. Fez differs from other cities by its divided Medina which include New Fez (Fes-el-Djedid) and old Fes (Fes-el-Bali). New Fez was build in the 14-th century so imagin how old Fes-el-Bali (old Fez) is. This city was founded in the 9th century by the first Muslim dynasty to rule Morocco, the Idrissids. Since then Fez has always played a pivotal role in the history of Morocco, right up to the revolt against the French.

Fez-el-Djedid is an outcome of the glorious times in 1248 during the conquest of Fez by the Merenids and therefore it reflects a massive royal city.

Most Fassis -the people of Fes- continue to live in in the Medina-city Fes-el-Bali instead of moving to the Ville Nouvelle; the modern urban and more European city.

Fez is no longer the capital of Morocco, and is not the biggest nor the most important town, but more than any other town it is immersed with the history of Morocco.

By now, most of the original Fassis who trace their heritage back to the time of the Andalusians have either moved to the Ville Nouvelle or to other cities like Casablanca and Rabat. The old medina is now crowded with rural-to-urban migrants and among the old families, very few still occupy their houses there. 

It's hard to get your grip on Fez. This may be partly because there are three towns in Fez: the two ancient walled areas — Fes-l-Bali (the old town) and Fes-l-Jdid (the new town) — and the more modern French-built Ville Nouvelle.

But let this not scare you! Fez is one of the best sights in the world. The walled cities are the main attraction of Fez. The whole old city of Fez has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The immense medina of Fes-l-Bali is a huge labyrinth. In order not to get lost it is best to keep in mind that when you walk down you go towards the center, when you walk up, you leave the center.

The gates that are part of the walls are part of some amazing architecture. Within the walls you should at least try to find the Medersa Attarine, the Medersa Cherratine and Medersa Seffarine, three stunning old buildings near the center of the maze. The other thing you shouldn't miss is the people at work in the median: coppersmith, tanners, dyers. Spectacular colours and lousy working conditions make for great pictures.

Just outside the walls are two good museums—Borj Nord (exhibiting weapons) and Dar Batha (Moroccan arts)—and the Royal Palace.

The amazing hammams are also worth it for a unique view into the local culture, especially for women. The hammam is the place for women to meet and gossip amidst the steamy rooms tiled with beautiful islamic designs.