Fez el Bali is one of the world's great historic cities — a place where a dark, dusty corner may open up into a grand tiled courtyard, and where the sounds of craftsmen at work have not changed in centuries.
The Borj Nord
This sixteenth-century fortress overlooks Bab Boujeloud and now houses Morocco's arms museum, full of daggers encrusted with stones and an extraordinary display of muskets. The structure features a notable cannon — 5 metres long and weighing twelve tonnes, said to have been used during the Battle of the Three Kings. Visitors ascend primarily for the panoramic vistas across the Medina.
Fez el Jedid
Unlike the organically developed Fez el Bali, Fez el Jedid ("New Fez") was a planned city, built by the Merenids in 1276. It functioned primarily as a governmental and military centre.
The Mellah — Jewish Quarter
The historic Jewish Quarter reflects the historically complex position of Moroccan Jews — protected by the sultan, yet with restricted movement outside the quarter's walls. Today it is a fascinating area of Fez history.
Bab Boujloud — The Blue Gate
The 1913 entrance to the medina features distinctive blue and green tiles and is the ideal starting point for exploration. The district includes the Bou Inania Koranic school and Talaa Kebira Avenue with its traditional market stalls.
Funduq al-Najjarin
Built in 1711, this merchant's inn now houses a wood arts museum showcasing carved cedar, colourful mosaic tile, and intricately carved stucco — a masterpiece of Moroccan craft.