Lost in Fez: A Wanderer's Guide to the Moroccan Labyrinth

A bit of context

Fes, Morocco's venerable heart, thrums with the rhythm of a bygone era. Unlike the boisterous chaos of Marrakech, Fes unfolds in a more subtle tapestry, a symphony of ancient secrets waiting to be unraveled. This "City of Scholars," nicknamed for its prestigious universities, has been a beacon of learning and knowledge for centuries. Founded by the Idrisid dynasty in the 8th century, the city flourished under Islamic rule, leaving behind a legacy etched in stone.

Step into Fes, and you step back in time. The Fes el-Bali medina, the world's largest car-free urban space, is a labyrinthine wonderland. Here, time seems to slow to a gentle amble. The air hums with a hushed reverence, punctuated by the rhythmic tap-tap-tap of a hammer on metal, or the melodic call to prayer echoing from a nearby minaret.

Wander through the twisting alleyways, a kaleidoscope of ochre, saffron, and burnt umber hues. Marvel at the intricate plasterwork adorning the Bou Inania Madrasa, a masterpiece of Marinid architecture. Its ornate facade, a testament to Fes' scholarly legacy, is a feast for the senses. Intricate cedarwood lattice windows peek down from above, offering tantalizing glimpses of the inner courtyards.