Fez

The Karaouiyine mosque is one of the most imposing in Morocco. It houses a university which is thought to be the oldest in the world and which was founded in the middle of the 9th century at a time when theology, grammar and Koranic law were the basic subjects taught. The El-Attarine Medersa, situated opposite it, is considered to be the most beautiful in the medina.

The Merenids built this masterpiece between 1323 and 1325. Its central courtyard is magnificently decorated. All types of spices await you in the El Attarine souk. Their palette of bright colours and appetizing fragrances recall the town's fine culinary reputation dating back to the Arabo-Andalusian tradition in the 13th century. You will, also, be able to find natural cosmetics. An alley separates the El-Attarine from the Joutia souk, the salt and fish market.

This medersa, built between 1350 and 1357, is the biggest in Fès. Pass through the magnificent entrance with its heavy copper work doors, and then be impressed by the abundance of earthenware, the refinement of the sculptured wood and plaster and the chiselled stalactites called mukarnas, the hallmark of Merenid architecture. A canopy of typical Fès green tiles surmounts the onyx and marble courtyard.

The old part of Fes with its numerous souks is a paradise for craftsmen Stroll through its alleys in order to discover the architectural marvels found there. Adobe and brick walls, pillars decorated with zelliges (mosaic tiling) and climbing patios are among the gems of the medina's architecture.

The Dar Batha Museum is specialised in the arts and crafts of Fes and so will give you a good overview of all the handicraft made in a town renowned for the skill of its different guilds. The potters and ceramists are probably the most outstanding. The cobalt blue tin glazing has become the standard for the craftsmen of the town. Among its treasures, is possible to admire its collection of astrolabes from the 11th to 18th centuries.

The Wooden Arts and Crafts Museum is situated in one of the most beautiful buildings in Fes, the En-Nejjarine Foundouk. Collections of different objects are exhibited in the old cells of this caravanserai. Wooden furniture can easily be purchased in the neighbourhood.

In the Belghazi Museum the ethnographic collection traces the history of Fes handiwork from the 15th century and illustrating it by jewellery, costumes and other everyday items. The museum extends on a surface from 7.000 square metres and its galleries of exposure hold more than 5000 parts.
www.museumbelghazi.com

Situated at about 73 km west of Fès, is the most important antique city in Morocco. It is a large Roman town with superb mosaics and many buildings like the triumphal arch, the press-house and the capitol and which has been designated as a Unesco World Heritage Site.

A golf course was created at the foot of the Atlas mountains in 1994. The Royal Golf Club of Fes is a very enjoyable course designed by the architect Cabell B. Robinson who also designed several other renowned golf courses in Morocco. Situated in a beautiful olive grove, golfers encounter lakes and gigantic bunkers; the largest covers 1200m².

 

Don't miss Sefrou and the Sebou Gorge, a spectacular canyon which are just at 33 km south-east of Fès. Another pleasant trip: the waterfalls of the Aggaï oued.

The Moulay Yacoub hot springs. These are renowned for their curative properties but are also excellent for your relaxation. This luxurious spa town has professional teams.