Medina of Fez
Fès-Meknès
The Medina of Fez, locally known as Fes el Bali, is the historic heart of Fez, Morocco, and one of the country's most culturally significant sites. Founded between 789 and 808 AD as the capital of the Idrisid dynasty, it originally consisted of two separate towns on either side of the Fez River, which merged in the 11th century under the Almoravids. The medina preserves its pre-modern urban layout with narrow winding alleys, bustling souks, and traditional Moroccan architecture. At its core lies the al-Qarawiyyin University, established in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri and recognized as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. The district is renowned for its historic mosques, madrasas such as Bou Inania and Al-Attarin, hammams, caravanserais, and the famous Chouara Tanneries. Despite losing its status as capital to Marrakesh during Almoravid rule, Fez flourished as a religious and economic hub and was the largest city in the world in the 12th century. The Marinid dynasty later revitalized the city, building Fes Jdid as a new administrative center next to the old medina. The medina's city walls and gates remain largely intact, contributing to its UNESCO World Heritage designation in 1981 alongside Fes Jdid. This living historic quarter offers visitors an immersive experience of medieval Islamic urbanism and Moroccan culture.
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Tip: Visitors should explore the Medina during the cooler morning hours to comfortably navigate its narrow alleys and vibrant markets. Purchasing tickets for popular sites like the Bou Inania Madrasa in advance is recommended to avoid queues. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Guided tours can enrich the experience by providing historical context. The medina is best visited on foot, and comfortable shoes are essential due to uneven surfaces. Avoid peak afternoon heat in summer months for a more pleasant visit.
Interesting facts
- •The University of al-Qarawiyyin, founded in 859, is recognized by UNESCO and Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating university in the world.
- •Fes was the largest city in the world during the 12th century with approximately 200,000 inhabitants under Almohad rule.
- •The Medina of Fez retains much of its original medieval city walls and gates, some dating back to the Almoravid and Marinid periods.
- •The Chouara Tanneries in the medina are among the oldest tanneries in the world and remain operational using traditional methods.
- •The medina's urban layout reflects pre-modern Islamic city planning, with narrow alleys, souks, and communal spaces preserved over centuries.
History
The Medina of Fez was founded in the late 8th to early 9th century by Idris I and his son Idris II, initially as two separate settlements on opposite banks of the Fez River.
These merged in the 11th century under the Almoravid dynasty.
The University of al-Qarawiyyin was established in 859, marking the medina as a center of Islamic learning.
Although Fez lost its capital status to Marrakesh under the Almoravids, it remained an important religious and commercial city, becoming the world's largest city in the 12th century under the Almohads.
The Marinid dynasty returned the capital to Fez in the 13th century and built Fes Jdid adjacent to the medina, ushering in a golden age of architectural development including madrasas and city fortifications.
Later dynasties, such as the Saadians, added defensive structures to control the city.
The medina's historic fabric has been preserved well enough to earn UNESCO World Heritage status in 1981.
Place Guide
Al-Qarawiyyin University and Mosque859
Founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri, this university is the oldest continuously operating educational institution worldwide. The mosque and university complex serve as the spiritual and intellectual heart of the medina, showcasing exquisite Islamic architecture and scholarship tradition.
Bou Inania Madrasa1350s
A 14th-century madrasa built by the Marinid dynasty, renowned for its stunning Marinid architecture, elaborate zellij tilework, carved wood, and stucco decoration. It served as a religious school and is one of the few religious buildings in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors.
Chouara Tanneries11th century (approximate)
Dating back to at least the 11th century, these tanneries are among the oldest in the world and still operate using traditional leather dyeing and tanning techniques. Visitors can view the colorful dye pits from surrounding terraces, witnessing a centuries-old craft.
Medina Walls and Gates11th-16th centuries
The historic city walls and gates, some built by the Almoravids and expanded by the Marinids and Saadians, define the medina's perimeter. They feature defensive towers and ornate gates such as Bab Bou Jeloud, serving both protective and ceremonial functions.
