Things To Do in Fes
by "Uncle" Eric
The following is a list of our top 10 things to do in Fes, Morocco.
#1 The Leather Tanneries
The Fes Tanneries symbolize the most renown artisan work of the Fes Medina. All along the winding pathways of the Medina, you will pass shops selling leather goods of all sorts, from leather jackets to travel bags to purses to wallets. The process starts with the centuries-old craft of traditional leather tanning. The most famous of the three tanneries in the Medina is the Chouara Tannery, dating back to the 11th century, located near the Wadi Fes, the river that divides the East and West banks of the Fes Medina.
#2 "The Loomery" - The Bougueddach Collective
(Update: "The Loomery" is presently under construction. It is sad for us to see the nostalgic building being torn down and replaced with a more modern, solid structure.)
It was only by accident that we first came upon the Bougueddach Collective, what we now call the “Loomery.” Now, after two years of exploration in the Medina of Fes, if we could take a visitor to only a few places in that vast ancient city, one of those would be here. Why? A 14th century decaying yet nostalgic caravansary, master weavers, some of the finest loom-weaved fabric that we have seen, and an unforgettable educational experience into this artisan craft. On top of all of that and what allows us to recommend the Loomery without hesitation is the kind, helpful, respectable people that work there, from the craftsmen to those who assist in the collective. There is only one difficulty to overcome — how to find this buried treasure – the link below will help with that.
#3 The Tombs of the Marinids
While the significance of this site can’t be understood without a guide or previous study, the reason why this site is listed as #3 can be summed up in one word – perspective. Dating back to the 14th century, the Tombs of the Merinids provide one of the best vantage points to get a good perspective of the Fes Medina and is an excellent starting point, allowing for some great photo opportunities. Those interested could walk, but it is a bit of a distance and a climb up a hill. Or, you could take a taxi. Just make sure to arrange beforehand to pay the taxi extra to wait for you — 15 minutes should be sufficient.
#4 The Madrasa Bou Inania
This madrasa, or “place of study,” boasts some of the finest Marinid architecture in existence today, dating back to the 14th century and recently renovated to help preserve the structural integrity and intricate craftsmanship of the building. Although strictly a Muslim site, non-Muslims are permitted to enter and pay a small fee at the entrance. Take time to appreciate the masterfully hand-carved plaster, the intricate tile work (zellij), and the beautiful cedar wood handiwork in this quiet oasis.
#5 The Mellah of Fes
The word “mellah,” meaning “salt marsh” or “salt spring,” is the name that was given to this “Jewish settlement,” established in Fes in 1438. The Mellah of Fes is the first mellah established in Morocco and provided both security and advantage to its residents. There are three main sites to visit in the Mellah: the streets themselves with quaint, beautiful verandas, an 18th century Jewish synagogue, and the Jewish cemetery. However, beyond what you can see with your eyes, their is a wealth of history to be discovered about the Jewish people of Morocco. If you have a moment, use the links below to read about the death of Sol Hachuel while listening to a song written in memory of her.
#6 Ceramic Handicraft Centers: Pottery & Zellij
Whether it be the intricate, beautiful mosaic tile work, zellij, or the fine handcrafted pottery, the ceramic artisan works of Fes earn the highest admiration. Zellij is seen throughout the Medina, with some fine examples found at the Bou Inania and Al-Attarine Medrasas or the Palais Mnebhi. However, while the handcrafted pottery can be seen and purchased in a number of shops inside the Medina, in order to see this craft firsthand, one must travel about 5-10 minutes to the East of the Medina. If you are visiting Fes and would like to purchase some pottery, we recommend that you make sure that the word “Fes” (Arabic: فاس) is written on the underside of the piece.
#7 Dar Al-Magana - "The Water Clock"
While the Dar al-Magana is easy to pass by and in disrepair, this engineering marvel of the medieval Arabic world rightfully earns a place in the top 10 places to visit in Fes. The entire building is one enormous water clock built in the 14th century and stands out as a masterpiece of its day, not only in North Africa, but in any region. Unfortunately, while the building still remains, the clock mechanism no longer functions, although there are rumors of the clock being refurbished. Around the same time period, another water clock was built in the Medina, located in the Dar al-Muwaqqit in the Al-Karaouine Mosque. If you would like to truly appreciate the significance of this achievement, click on the link below and watch a brief video explaining the functioning of a similar clock located at the Al-Karaouine Mosque.
#8 The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
Often, the determining factor in the appreciation of any museum is based on the degree of interest in the particular subject matter on display. However, whether you are interested or not in the exhibits of wooden arts and crafts at the Nejjarine Museum, this museum is definitely worth the visit and the 20 dirhams each (roughly $2.10) to enter! First and foremost, the building itself, a beautifully restored caravansary, is a true masterpiece. If you are interested, you could easily spend thirty minutes working your way through the various rooms on each of the three floors. But, before you leave, make sure to take pictures of the inner court (pictures are prohibited in the display rooms), examine the massive scales on the ground floor, and go to the rooftop for an excellent view of the Medina. And, an extra bonus, they have decent bathrooms in the museum.
#9 The Seffarine Square
Located just below the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, a square filled with an atmosphere of antiquity, beauty, and craftsmanship awaits your discovery. The Seffarine Square is named after the Seffarine Medrasa, or School of Metalworkers, which was established in the 13th century. The square is a center of metal artisan work, both in copper and other metals. Within the square is a contrast of workmanship, from the loud clanks of blacksmiths forming large copper kettles to the fine, precision work of delicate decorative brass plates, the ambiance and views of the setting are nostalgic and mesmerizing.
#10 The Palace Mnebhi
While there are other palaces to visit in Fes, it is difficult to find one that is so well maintained and situated as Palace Mnebhi. Some fifteen years in building, the craftsmenship of the zellij, carved plasterwork, and intricate woodwork is breathtaking! While it may not be possible to visit if they are serving a meal to a large group, it is definitely worth checking to see if you could receive a brief tour and take pictures. As well, if you have time, pay for a mint tea and enjoy it while sitting on the roof overlooking the city. It is a peaceful repose from the business streets of the medina and well worth the time and price.
