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Fez

April 04, 2025 0

Fez: The Historical and Cultural Jewel of Morocco

Introduction Fez is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the Islamic world. It has long served as a major cultural, intellectual, and spiritual hub in Morocco since its founding in the 8th century. The city is globally renowned for its historical legacy, distinct architectural features, and pivotal role in Morocco’s cultural and economic development.

Bab Bou Jeloud


1. Basic Facts and Geography Fez (or Fès in French) is situated in north-central Morocco, approximately 180 kilometers east of Rabat, the capital city. The city lies at the crossroads between the Middle Atlas Mountains and the Saiss plain, granting it a strategic geographical location. It covers a total area of around 320 square kilometers and is home to a population exceeding 1.2 million (as of the 2023 census). The city is divided into three main zones:

  • Fes el Bali (Old Fez): the oldest walled part of the city, known for its medieval architecture and bustling souks.

  • Fes el Jdid (New Fez): founded in the 13th century under the Marinid dynasty.

  • Ville Nouvelle: the modern administrative and residential area developed during the French protectorate.

2. Historical Overview Fez was founded in 789 AD by Idris I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty. His son, Idris II, further developed the city, attracting Arab, Andalusian, and Jewish settlers, which contributed to the cultural and ethnic diversity that defines Fez. During the medieval period, the city flourished under successive dynasties: the Almoravids, Almohads, Marinids, and later the Saadians and Alaouites. In the 13th century, Fez emerged as the capital of the Marinid Sultanate and as a leading center of Islamic learning and commerce.

Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University

One of the city’s most celebrated historical institutions is the University of Al Quaraouiyine, founded in 859 AD. Recognized by UNESCO and the Guinness World Records as the oldest existing, continually operating higher educational institution in the world, it remains a beacon of Islamic scholarship.

Al-Attarine Madrasa

3. Social and Cultural Fabric Fez is widely regarded as Morocco's spiritual and intellectual heart. It is home to an impressive number of madrasas (Islamic schools), mosques, zawiyas (Sufi lodges), and libraries. The city's social life is deeply rooted in religious practices, traditional crafts, and community-centered activities. Artisans continue to produce goods using centuries-old techniques passed down through generations.

Chouara Tannery

Fez is also a cultural beacon, hosting annual events such as the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music, which attracts international performers and promotes intercultural dialogue.

4. Economic Landscape Fez’s economy is multifaceted, with major contributions from traditional crafts, tourism, agriculture, education, and services.

  • Artisan Crafts: Approximately 30% of the local labor force is engaged in crafts such as leather tanning, copper engraving, ceramic making, and wood carving. The Chouara Tannery, one of the oldest in the world, is a major tourist attraction and symbol of the city’s artisanal heritage.

  • Tourism: With over 1.2 million visitors annually (2023 data), tourism plays a vital role in the local economy. The historic medina of Fez el Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981, is among the largest car-free urban areas in the world and a magnet for cultural tourism.

  • Education and Services: Fez hosts multiple institutions of higher education, including the Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University. Education-related services generate significant economic activity.

  • Agriculture and Trade: The region around Fez is fertile, supporting olive, grape, and cereal cultivation. The city also acts as a trade hub between agricultural producers and urban markets.

5. Tourism and Major Attractions Fez is rich in monuments and tourist landmarks, including:

  • Al Quaraouiyine Mosque and University: Not open to non-Muslims, but admired from the outside for its architecture and history.

  • Bou Inania Madrasa: An exquisite example of Marinid architecture, open to visitors.

  • Al-Attarine Madrasa: Famous for its ornate tilework and cedar wood carvings.

  • Chouara Tannery: A centuries-old tannery where visitors can observe the traditional leather-dyeing process.

  • Dar Batha Museum: Houses a collection of Moroccan arts including pottery, woodwork, and historical manuscripts.

  • Bab Bou Jeloud (Blue Gate): The iconic entrance to the medina, known for its vibrant blue and green tilework.

How to Reach Fez:

Dar Batha Museum


  • By Air: The Fez-Saïss International Airport (FEZ) is located 15 km from the city center and connects with major European and Moroccan cities.

  • By Train: Fez is well-connected by Morocco’s national railway network (ONCF), offering routes to Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, and Tangier.

  • By Road: Modern highways link Fez to other major cities. Buses and taxis are also widely available for intercity travel.

6. Challenges and Prospects While Fez has immense cultural wealth, it also faces modern challenges:

  • Urban pressure on the historic medina from population growth and tourism.

  • Decline in traditional crafts due to mass production and lack of younger artisans.

  • Infrastructure gaps in waste management and preservation of historical sites.

In response, the Moroccan government and international organizations like UNESCO have initiated restoration projects and urban development plans to safeguard Fez’s heritage and promote sustainable tourism.

Conclusion Fez is a city where history lives in every alley and archway. Its blend of tradition, culture, and resilience makes it one of the most fascinating urban centers in the Arab and Islamic worlds. With continuous efforts in preservation, education, and economic diversification, Fez is not only a symbol of Morocco's past but also a beacon for its future.

Sources and References

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