Fez, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, is the country’s spiritual and cultural heart. Founded in 789 by Idris I, it is home to the world’s oldest continuously functioning university, Al-Qarawiyyin, established in 859. The city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and ancient madrasas, mosques, and fountains, showcasing a blend of Andalusian and Arab influences. Fez’s walled medina, Fes el-Bali, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its labyrinthine streets, bustling souks, and traditional crafts, especially its famed tanneries and intricate pottery.
Fez has long been a center of religious, intellectual, and artistic life in Morocco. Its cultural richness is evident in its festivals, cuisine, and scholarly traditions, attracting scholars, artisans, and visitors from around the world. Today, Fez continues to serve as a key destination for those seeking an authentic experience of Morocco’s history and heritage.