Highlights of Our Full Day Fez Guided Tour
- Historic Medina Exploration
- Intricacies of Al-Quaraouiyine University and Mosque explained by your guide
- Bustling Souks
- Tanneries Visit
- Panoramic City Views
Meet and Greet at Your Accommodation
Kick-start your day with a warm, personal introduction from your private guide right at your accommodation. They’ll provide a brief overview of the day’s adventures, ensuring you know what to expect every step of the way.
Fez El Bali (Old Fez): Venturing into the Ancient Medina
Your visit to Fez El Bali is a step back in time, a chance to immerse yourself in a living museum where traditions passed down through generations continue to thrive in the modern age.
The Medina, with its narrow winding lanes, bustling souks, and historical sites, provides an unparalleled insight into Morocco’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Al-Qarawiyyin University
Established in 859 AD, Al-Qarawiyyin University isn’t just the pride of Fez, but also a globally recognized institution for being one of the world’s oldest universities.
The university’s architecture is a testament to the golden age of Islamic design, with its intricate mosaics, beautiful courtyards, and ancient manuscripts housed within. Your private guide will immerse you in its storied past, revealing tales of famous scholars who once graced its halls and the birth of various academic disciplines.
Medersa Bou Inania
As you continue your journey through the Medina, your next stop is the Medersa Bou Inania.
This historic madrasa, built in the mid-14th century, stands as a paragon of Merinid architecture, adorned with exquisite cedar woodwork, marble, and zellige tilework. Its towering minaret, with its green tiles, stands as a beacon within the cityscape.
Inside, the prayer hall’s stunningly intricate designs provide a serene ambiance for reflection. Your guide will share insights into the madrasa’s history and its importance in the religious and academic life of the city.
Tanneries
One of Fez’s most iconic and sensory experiences awaits as you approach the tanneries. A vibrant spectacle, the tanneries have operated in much the same way for centuries. Large stone vessels filled with dyes and liquids give life to the age-old process of turning hides into soft, colorful leather.
As you overlook this unique process from the terraces above, the mix of colors in the pits forms a mosaic of its own. The scent, a blend of natural dyes and the rawness of the hides, tells its own story of hard work and tradition.
This is a hands-on experience, where you’ll get the opportunity to meet and chat with some of the workers, gaining firsthand knowledge of the leather-making process, its challenges, and its undying significance to Fez’s economic and cultural life.
Fez El Jdid (New Fez): Exploring the Royal Quarter
The next section of our Fez itinerary looks into the rich tapestry of cultures and communities that have coexisted, thrived, and influenced each other, making Fez the historical and cultural gem it is today.
Royal Palace
As you transition from the old to the newer part of Fez, the Royal Palace is a testament to Morocco’s regal history and grandeur.
Although the palace’s interiors remain a mystery to tourists, the palace’s imposing facades are enough to leave an indelible impression. The grand golden gates, intricately designed with masterful zellige tilework and embellished with cedar wood carvings and brass, act as silent guardians of the stories and secrets within.
Their beauty, reflecting the sun’s golden rays, makes for a picture-perfect moment, capturing the essence of Morocco’s royal legacy.
Jewish Quarter (Mellah)
A stark contrast to the Islamic architecture around the city, the Mellah chronicles the lives and influences of Fez’s Jewish community.
Winding streets flanked with balconied residences speak of a bygone era, while the remaining synagogues hint at the religious diversity and harmony the city once enjoyed. As you tread the cobbled pathways, your guide will weave tales of the Jewish diaspora, their thriving businesses, and their lasting impact on Fez’s cultural and economic landscape.
From the metalwork in the balconies to the architectural designs of the houses, the Jewish influence is evident and stands as a poignant reminder of the shared history and mutual respect between the Jewish and Muslim communities of Fez.
Arts and Craftsmanship: A Journey through Fez’s Artistic Heritage
Both stops on this portion of the tour provide a visual treat and an immersive experience, transporting you to a world where tradition and artistry converge in every creation.
Pottery Workshops
As you step into the lively workshops, the resonating sounds of artisans chiseling, shaping, and painting capture your senses. Fez’s iconic blue pottery, known for its vibrant azure hues set against creamy whites, has graced tables and homes for centuries.
Watch as skilled craftsmen deftly mold clay into beautiful shapes, then hand-paint intricate patterns with brushes, each stroke a testament to years of mastered technique. These pieces, ranging from ornate tagines to decorative plates, are not just cookware but pieces of art, each telling tales of Fez’s rich artistic traditions.
Traditional Weaving Houses
Moving from clay to cloth, you’ll be introduced to the rhythmic clatter of looms and the soft rustling of fabrics. In the heart of the city, the weaving houses stand as guardians of an age-old craft. Nimble fingers interlace threads here, creating intricate patterns that dance across fabrics.
As your guide explains the symbolism behind the designs, you gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and stories woven into each textile. From the royal caftans’ fine silk threads to the Berber cloaks’ rugged wool, Fez’s textiles are a beautiful blend of function and artistry.
Spiritual Heart of Fez: Zaouia of Moulay Idriss II
Nestled amidst the dense tapestry of the Fez medina lies the Zaouia of Moulay Idriss II, a site of profound spiritual importance. The mausoleum’s ornate zellige tiles and carved woodworks hint at its significance as you approach.
This is not just a burial site, but a homage to Moulay Idriss II, regarded as the founder of Fez. With your guide’s narration, you’ll uncover tales of his contributions, which shaped Fez into a spiritual and cultural hub.
While non-Muslims are not permitted inside, the surrounding square pulsates with devotion, offering a glimpse into the deep reverence Moroccans hold for this revered figure. The Zaouia serves as a poignant reminder of Fez’s spiritual roots and the city’s enduring legacy.