A Family Cultural Odyssey in Fes

Fez's Artistic Embrace

Today was a day of diving deep into the artistic and spiritual heart of Fes. With Greta and Kian by my side, I set out to explore the city's cultural treasures, each location offering a unique glimpse into Morocco's rich heritage. It’s days like these that remind me why I love traveling – the opportunity to immerse myself in history and art, sharing these experiences with my family, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at La Maison Bleue. Stepping into La Maison Bleue felt like entering another world. The riad was stunning, decorated with intricate woodwork and vibrant mosaics. It felt like a true Fassi experience, and the positive reviews I had read beforehand certainly lived up to the experience. The breakfast was a feast – fresh bread, local honey, and strong coffee that prepared me for the day ahead. It was the perfect way to fuel up before diving into the cultural wonders of Fes. As someone who appreciates the finer details in life, especially when it comes to historical preservation, I was excited to see what the day held.


Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality at La Maison Bleue – where tradition meets luxury in the heart of Fes.

After breakfast, our first stop was the Dar Batha Museum. This museum, housed in a 19th-century palace, is a treasure trove of Moroccan arts and crafts. As we walked through the palace, I was struck by the intricate designs and vibrant colors of the exhibits. I was particularly drawn to the collection of traditional Moroccan pottery, a craft that has been perfected in Fes for over a thousand years. Kian was fascinated by the astronomical instruments, especially the astrolabes, which he thought looked like something out of a science fiction movie. Greta, with her librarian's eye for detail, appreciated the delicate embroidery and the complex patterns of the carpets. We spent a good couple of hours here, soaking in the artistic heritage of Fes. I even managed to snap some photos, trying to capture the essence of each piece, though a photograph could never truly do them justice.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Morocco at Dar Batha Museum, Fes, where history and art converge.

The soul of a city is reflected in its art, its architecture, and the stories it tells.

Leaving Dar Batha, we made our way to the Al Attarine Madrasa, a Koranic school founded in the 14th century. This madrasa is a masterpiece of Marinid architecture, and it's considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Morocco. The intricate mosaics, the carved stucco, and the cedarwood details were simply breathtaking. As a restorer of historical musical instruments, I am always in awe of the craftsmanship of previous generations. The Al Attarine Madrasa was no exception. The care and precision that went into every detail were evident, and it was clear that this was a place of great importance. Greta and I took turns pointing out different architectural elements to Kian, explaining the significance of each design. It was a wonderful opportunity to teach him about history and art in a tangible way.


Explore the enchanting Al Attarine Madrasa, a historical landmark in Fes showcasing intricate Moroccan architecture and rich cultural heritage.

After the Al Attarine Madrasa, we stopped for lunch at Chez Hakim. This restaurant offered a relaxing atmosphere with a lovely terrace, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors. The menu was diverse, blending Moroccan, Mediterranean, and international flavors. I opted for the Moroccan couscous, while Greta chose a Mediterranean salad, and Kian, of course, went for the grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the service was friendly and attentive. It was a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the medina, and we all enjoyed the opportunity to relax and recharge before continuing our explorations. It was nice to see Kian trying new things and enjoying the different flavors of Moroccan cuisine.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Chez Hakim in Fès - a family-friendly restaurant serving delicious traditional cuisine.

With renewed energy, we headed to the Andalusian Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Fes. Founded in the 9th century by Maryam al-Fihri, the sister of Fatima al-Fihri (who founded the University of Al Quaraouiyine), this mosque has a rich history and a beautiful architectural design. The mosque's prayer hall consists of seven naves, topped by a cedar wood ceiling supported by 124 columns. The walls and floors are covered with zellij tiles and intricate wood carvings. As we walked through the mosque, I was struck by the sense of peace and tranquility that permeated the space. Despite the crowds of tourists, there was a feeling of reverence and spirituality that was palpable. I took a moment to reflect on the history of this place, imagining the countless prayers that had been offered here over the centuries. It was a humbling experience.


Explore the Andalusian Mosque in Fes, a stunning example of Islamic architecture and a cultural cornerstone in Morocco's historical landscape.

Our final stop for the day was Medin Art, a shop showcasing the work of local artisans and designers. This was a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts, and I was impressed by the quality and creativity of the items on display. Greta found a beautiful handwoven scarf, while Kian picked out a small wooden toy. I purchased a set of hand-painted ceramic bowls, which I knew would look perfect in our kitchen back in Bamberg. It was wonderful to support local artisans and to bring home a piece of Fes with us.


Discover authentic Moroccan handicrafts at Medin Art in Fes, where tradition meets creativity in a beautiful collection of unique treasures.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we had dinner at Restaurant MB. This restaurant, located in Ville Nouvelle, offered a change of pace from the traditional Medina restaurants. The decor was modern and stylish, and the menu featured a mix of French classics and Moroccan specialties. I started with the traditional pigeon pastilla, a dish I had been wanting to try since arriving in Morocco. The combination of sweet and savory flavors was delightful. Greta had the ocean roll of shrimp and fish, which she raved about. For dessert, I couldn't resist the gingerbread with berries and ice cream. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience French culinary excellence at Restaurant MB in Fes—where sophistication meets flavor in a stunning lounge atmosphere.

As we made our way back, Kian, tired but happy, was already fast asleep. Greta and I reflected on the day's adventures, marveling at the beauty and richness of Fes's cultural heritage. We talked about the intricate designs of the Dar Batha Museum, the serene atmosphere of the Andalusian Mosque, and the delicious flavors of Moroccan cuisine. It was a day filled with discovery and wonder, and I felt grateful to have shared it with my family.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Borj Nord Museum, Marinid Tombs, and Viewpoint Medina. I'm looking forward to seeing more of Fes and learning more about its history and culture. I think we might stop by Mezzanine for a drink in the evening, and I'm hoping to find some live music there. For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of adventure.

Fes, with its vibrant culture and rich history, has truly captured my heart. It's a city that rewards exploration and offers something new to discover around every corner. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

I'm especially glad I remembered to bring my camera today, as I managed to capture some stunning shots of the architecture and the landscapes. However, I'm still kicking myself for forgetting the portable charger. My phone almost died halfway through the day, and I had to conserve battery to ensure I could still use it for navigation.

The hat would have been useful too, as the sun was quite strong, and I could feel myself getting a little sunburned despite applying sunscreen. It's a good reminder to always double-check my packing list before heading out, especially when traveling with family. Despite these minor inconveniences, it was an unforgettable day, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

As I sit here, reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Grateful for the opportunity to travel, to explore new cultures, and to share these experiences with my loved ones. Travel is more than just visiting new places; it's about opening your mind, expanding your horizons, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And Fes, with its artistic embrace, has certainly left an indelible mark on my soul.