Lost in the Labyrinth of Fez
Founded in the 8th century, Fez is a living testament to Morocco's rich history and culture, it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1981.
The ancient city of Fez is the world's largest car-free urban area, with lanes passable only on foot, by humans or donkeys and horses.
Fez is a city of contrasts, where old meets new, and traditional architecture coexists with modern amenities. It is a place where you can get lost in the maze-like alleys of the medina and discover hidden gems around every corner.
Fez is also famous for its vibrant souks, where you can find everything from spices and textiles to pottery and jewelry. These bustling markets are a feast for the senses, with colourful displays of goods and the sounds of haggling and bargaining filling the air. And don't forget to keep an eye out for the donkeys that still roam the streets of the medina, carrying goods and supplies through the narrow alleys.
Fez is also famous for its exquisite pottery, which is often decorated with intricate geometric patterns and bright colours. You can find pottery shops throughout the medina, selling everything from small decorative pieces to larger serving dishes and plates.
Chouara Tannery
As you wander through the narrow streets of the medina, you'll come across the Chouara Tannery.
Operating since at least the 16th century, this tannery is the largest of the medina's several tanneries and one of the most iconic sights and smells in all of Morocco.
As you approach the tannery, you'll likely notice the strong smell of animal hides and natural dyes that permeates the air. But don't let that deter you!
Once inside the tannery, you'll see rows upon rows of stone vessels filled with various coloured dyes, from deep shades of red to bright yellows and greens. Workers move between the vessels, stirring the dyes and carefully laying out the skin to soak in the colours.
The tanning process itself is fascinating to watch. The hides are first immersed in the vats filled with a mixture of water, lime, pigeon droppings, ashes and cow urine (yes, you read that right!) to make the hair easier to remove and to soften the leather. As you may have guessed, this is the main reason for the strong odor that this place is known for.
The skin are then soaked in different coloured dyes, depending on the desired final colour. They are left submerged in tubs of natural dyes along with fig paste and oils to soften them and make them more resistant to wear-and-tear.
Lastly, the skin are dried on the rooftops around the tannery. Once the whole process is finished (approximately 48 hours) they are collected and sold to large companies or auctioned off.
One of the most striking things about the Chouara Tannery is the sheer scale of the operation. Despite the tannery's age, the techniques and processes used today are much the same as they were centuries ago. And while it may seem like a dirty and unpleasant job, the workers at the tannery take great pride in their craft and in preserving the traditions of their ancestors.
Al Qarawiyyin | Kairaouine Mosque & University
Located in the heart of the ancient city of Fez, it is considered the world's oldest university. Founded in 859, the University of Al Quaraouiyine has a long and rich history that spans over a millennium and it is one of the most prestigious universities in the Arab world.
One of its most impressive feature is its stunning architecture, which blends Islamic and Moroccan styles. The university's main hall, for example, is adorned with intricate geometric patterns and carved plasterwork that are reminiscent of the Alhambra in Granada, Spain.
But perhaps what is most remarkable about this place is that it has remained a centre of learning and innovation for over a thousand years, despite the many upheavals and changes that have taken place in the world around it.
Medersa El Attarine
Founded in 1325 in the heart of the medina, this school is a marvel of elegant mosaic tiles, magnificent cut plaster as fine as lace and beautiful original carved cedar.
Whether you're a student, a scholar, or simply a curious traveller, Al Qarawwiyyin is a place that will inspire you and leave you in awe.
From the winding alleys of the medina, bustling souks to the grandeur of the Mosque & Universities and even witnessed the ancient art of tanning leather at the Chouara Tannery, we've experienced the very best that this ancient city has to offer.
