Fez has a rich and more than a millennium-long history. The best things to do in Fes for its outline of the major historical eras is shown below:
- Foundation and Early History: Idris I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty and the presumed founder of Morocco established Fes in the eighth century. He made the city the seat of his realm and a hub for Islamic scholarship and culture.
- Idrisid dynasty: prospered during the reign of the Idrisid dynasty, which lasted from the late eighth to the early tenth century. Fes rose to prominence in the Muslim world during this period as a political, cultural, and religious hub. In 859 CE, the University of Al-Qarawiyyin is among the world’s oldest universities still in operation.
- Almoravid and Almohad Eras: In the eleventh and twelfth centuries, it was ruled by the Berber Muslim Almoravid and then Almohad dynasties, who both grew their empires throughout North Africa and Spain. These eras saw the creation of striking structures that added to Fes’s architectural legacy, such as palaces, mosques, and defensive walls.
- Merinid dynasty: was ruled by the Berber-born Merinid dynasty from the thirteenth to the fifteenth century. Enjoyed an era of economic success, cultural flowering, and architectural progress during their control. During this period, the Marinid Tombs and the Madrasa Bou Inania, two of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, were constructed.
- French and Ottoman Domination: In the sixteenth century, The city was briefly ruled by the Ottoman Empire until local dynasties took over. Fes joined the rest of Morocco as a French protectorate in the 20th century. The administrative structure and infrastructure of the city underwent substantial modifications throughout the French colonial era.
- Independence and the Modern Era: In 1956, Morocco declared its independence from France, which ushered in the creation of the current Moroccan state. continues to be a center of spirituality and culture in the nation, drawing visitors from all over the globe with its lively cultural scene, ancient medina, and traditional crafts.
Fez has been crucial to the growth of Islamic art, scholarship, and civilization in North Africa and beyond throughout its history. The city’s ongoing heritage is demonstrated by its medina, which is still a UNESCO World Heritage site with its winding lanes and antique structures.
Morocco’s Fez is a historical, cultural, and architecturally rich city. Here are some things you can do while visiting Fes:
- Take a tour of the Medina: is home to one of the world’s biggest and most historic medinas. Explore its winding streets, busy souks (markets), and architecturally significant buildings. Points of interest like the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and the Bou Inania Madrasa should not be missed.
- See the Tanneries: is well-known for its tanneries that produce leather. Take a guided tour to witness the centuries-old, traditional processes used to produce leather.
- Explore the Palaces and Gardens: Take a tour of the stunning gardens and stately mansions dotted across the city, including the Royal Palace and the Dar Batha Museum.
- Try Moroccan Food: Visit nearby eateries and food carts to savor the delectable Moroccan fare. Savor delicacies like pastilla, couscous, and tagine.
- Enroll in a Cooking Class: Enroll in a cooking class in Fes to learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan cuisine. You’ll learn about Moroccan cooking methods and ingredients while gaining practical experience in the kitchen creating authentic cuisine.
- Visit a Traditional Hammam: At one of Fes’ hammams, have a traditional Moroccan steam bath. It’s a soothing and enlightening cultural experience.
- Take a Day Trip to Meknes and Volubilis: is located near two more intriguing locations: Meknes, an imperial city, and the Roman remains of Volubilis. Think about going on a day excursion to some of these local sights.
- Go Souvenir Shopping: Bring home mementos from your trip to Morocco, like leather products, handcrafted ceramics, spices, and traditional Moroccan linens. The medina is the ideal location for finding one-of-a-kind finds.