In Pictures: Inside the Alleyways of Fez Medina

By Tatiana Flowers

Rabat – Although the political capital of Morocco was transferred from Fez to Rabat in 1912, Fez remains one of the eldest, most spiritual, artistic, and cultural hubs in the kingdom.

The alleyways in the Fez medina are filled with artists selling handmade jewelry, paintings, pottery, leather, and other kinds of Moroccan clothing. Vendors selling food can be found on every strip of the crowded medina as well.

Fez is the second largest city in Morocco, comprising almost 1 million people. It was founded in 789 A.D. by Idris II, a descendent of the prophet, and houses the oldest university in the world, Al Karaouin University, in addition to 25 old schools (Madrassas).

During the day, many people fill the small, windy streets of the Fez medina and at night, a visible change ensues. After dusk, many people eat and drink at café’s inside and outside of the medina. This change is more visible during Ramadan since a majority of Moroccans fast during this time.

Fez’s riads and vintage production of handmade crafts attract more and more tourists as time passes. Fes often sends imported goods, foods, and handmade crafts to other towns and cities in Morocco.

Journalists from Morocco World News spent 36 hours in Fez, documenting the different attractions through video and imagery.

Images from the scene, include visits to: Seffarine Square, where pottery is produced, Shemmaine, the market of fried fruits, Café Clock, at the heart of the medina, Sebaghine, which where clothes are dyed, Mssid, a classroom for kindergarteners, and Kissariat al Kifah, a large shopping mall.