Fes – The Cultural Heart of Morocco

Fes is one of the oldest and most important cities in Morocco. It is known as the spiritual and cultural capital of the country. Located in the northeastern part of Morocco, Fes was founded in the 8th century by Idris II, the son of the founder of the Idrisid dynasty. Since its creation, the city has played a major role in Moroccan history, especially in religion, education, and culture.

The city is divided into three main parts: Fes el-Bali (the old city), Fes el-Jdid (the royal city), and the modern area built during the French colonial period. The most famous and historic part is Fes el-Bali, which is one of the largest walled medieval cities in the world.

Fes el-Bali is full of narrow streets where cars cannot enter. Visitors can walk through its old alleys and explore traditional markets (souks), shops selling leather goods, fabrics, spices, ceramics, and handmade copper items. One of the most famous features of the city is its leather tanneries, where leather is still prepared and dyed using traditional methods in open-air pits.

One of the city's most important landmarks is Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in 859 AD by a woman named Fatima al-Fihri. It is considered the oldest existing university in the world that is still operating today. Fes also has many historic religious schools (madrasas) that once taught Islamic sciences and Arabic language.

The city is also known for its beautiful mosques, such as the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, the Andalusian Mosque, and the Moulay Idriss Mosque. The architecture of Fes reflects a rich blend of Moroccan and Andalusian styles, with intricate tile work, carved wood, and beautiful courtyards.

Fes is not just a historic city – it is a living symbol of Moroccan culture and heritage. Even today, it keeps its traditional charm, and thousands of tourists visit it each year to experience its history, crafts, and unique atmosphere.