The center of commerce and social interaction in Morocco gravitates toward her medinas. The medina is the old city, a place where merchants, tourists, and locals intersect. Of all the medinas in Morocco, Fez Medina may be the most famous.
The Maze of Fez Medina
Fez Medina is a labyrinth with over 9,400 streets and alleyways. It’s easy to get lost in the massive market. We traversed the medina with a guide, so getting in and out was not an issue. But I wouldn’t have wanted to navigate it alone.
Narrow Alleyways and Unique Sights
The most striking feature of Fez Medina is its narrow alleyways. It’s not uncommon to encounter a donkey or mule in the often narrow passageways. Winding through the medina offers exposure to the sights, sounds, and smells of Morocco. From grilled meat to bright fresh vegetables to the cacophony of barter, the marketplace is an assault on the senses. Navigating with a guide takes the pressure off, allowing us to absorb the culture of the ancient city.
Historical and Cultural Richness
Fez was founded in the ninth century and is home to the world’s oldest university. Fez was in its heyday in the Middle Ages when it served as the capital of Morocco. In some ways, it retains the heartbeat of Morocco, serving as a cultural capital, if not the political seat of government.
Fez was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1981. It is a culturally rich area that has retained a mystique largely embedded in the medina. No automobiles are permitted in the medina, allowing the area to retain an intimate connection with its past. Walls are often buttressed against each other with large beams visible to visitors among the narrow routes through the medina.
The Ubiquity of Cats and Other Animals
Cats are ubiquitous in Morocco. They aren’t necessarily pets, but they are taken care of communally, it seems. It was not uncommon for us to run into a cat with her kittens as we trekked through the medina. Aside from cats, we encountered a variety of other live animals, from horses to donkeys to chickens. The animals added to the market atmosphere of the medina.
Visits to Key Stops
During this trip, we visited a madrassa, a carpet factory, and a leather shop. The leather shop was an experience unto itself. Here are a few additional photos of our other stops along the way.
Fez Medina Leatherworks
Fez Medina Madrassa
Fez Medina Carpet Shop
A Day Well Spent at the Fez Medina
We spent the better part of a day navigating the Fez Medina. It would be easy to spend a full day here. Or even two. We had the opportunity to buy carpets, leather, and a host of other crafts. I will leave you with some photographs of the medina that speak volumes more than what I could describe. You can get an idea for the eclectic feel of the place.
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