Exploring the Cultural Riches of Fes with Friends

Fes: A Journey Through Time and Taste

Today in Fes, I embarked on a day that felt like stepping through various portals in time, each revealing a unique facet of this captivating city. From the solemn echoes of ancient tombs to the fragrant aromas of a bustling cooking school, and the serene beauty of a historic mosque, Fes offered a symphony of experiences that resonated deeply. And of course, all of it was made even better as I shared it with my friends.

Our day began with a taxi ride to the Marinid Tombs, perched high above the city. The wind whipped through my hair as we made our way up, the landscape transforming from a dense urban maze to a panoramic vista. The tombs themselves, weathered by centuries, stood as silent witnesses to the rise and fall of the Marinid dynasty. Although little is known about who exactly is buried there, the site exuded an aura of mystery. The view, however, was far from somber. From our vantage point, Fes sprawled beneath us, a tapestry of rooftops, minarets, and winding alleyways, all bathed in the soft morning light. The call to prayer echoed in the distance, a melodic reminder of the city's deep-rooted spirituality. I could pick out the green tiles of the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, a testament to the rich architectural history of the city.


Explore the ancient Marinid Tombs in Fes, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and a rich glimpse into Morocco's past.

To understand a country's culture, you need to eat it.

After soaking in the history and the view, we made our way to the Fez Cooking School at Palais Amani. This was an experience I had been particularly looking forward to, and it did not disappoint! The school is set in a stunning riad, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling medina. Our class began with a guided tour of the local souk, led by our effervescent Chef. The souk was a sensory explosion – vibrant colors, exotic spices, and the lively chatter of vendors. We gathered fresh ingredients, each item carefully selected for its quality and flavor. I even managed to practice my Norwegian a bit, asking the chef how to say some of the spice names in my mother tongue.


Experience the rich flavors of Morocco at Fez Cooking School, where cooking becomes a delightful journey through culture and tradition.
Back at the Palais Amani, the cooking commenced. Under the chef's expert guidance, we learned to prepare a traditional Moroccan tagine. The aromas filled the air as we layered the ingredients, each spice adding its unique note to the culinary symphony. It was fascinating to learn about the techniques and traditions passed down through generations. The best part, of course, was savoring the fruits of our labor – a delicious tagine that we enjoyed in the riad's serene courtyard. The Palais Amani itself was gorgeous, I can see why it gets such rave reviews. Perhaps Maximilian and I should plan a trip here ourselves sometime, it would certainly be a romantic getaway.

With our bellies full and our minds enriched, we ventured towards the Andalusian Mosque. Nestled in the heart of the Andalusian quarter, the mosque stands as a testament to the city's diverse cultural influences. Built in the 9th century by refugees from Cordoba, it boasts a rich history and stunning architecture. The intricate details of the minaret, the graceful arches, and the serene courtyard transported us to another era. The mosque was expanded in the 10th century by the Umayyads, who added the minaret, and again between 1203 and 1207 when Caliph Muhammad al-Nasir built the north entrance. What I found particularly striking was how the mosque, despite its grandeur, felt like an integral part of the community, a place of solace and reflection.


Explore the Andalusian Mosque in Fes, a stunning blend of architecture and tranquility, reflecting Morocco's rich Islamic heritage.
Before heading back to our riad, we stopped by the Cooperative Artisanal de Fes. I was keen to find some authentic Moroccan handicrafts to take back home as souvenirs. The cooperative offered a wide array of products, from intricately woven carpets to delicate ceramics and leather goods. What impressed me most was the cooperative's commitment to supporting local artisans, particularly women. Each purchase felt like a small contribution to the community, a way of preserving traditional crafts and empowering local livelihoods. I ended up buying a beautiful handwoven rug, its vibrant colors a reminder of the souk and the tagine we made earlier in the day. I also picked up a few small ceramic bowls, perfect for serving Astrid her favorite Norwegian treats.


Discover the vibrant craftsmanship of Morocco at Cooperative Artisanal de Fes, where tradition and artistry thrive in every handmade piece.
For breakfast, we enjoyed a delightful meal at Dar Roumana, which I would describe as Franco-Moroccan fusion. I had fresh fruit, yogurt, and Moroccan honey. For lunch, we chose Les Jardins de Sheherazade. It had a really romantic atmosphere, and the Moroccan gastronomy was delightful. To cap off our day, we had dinner at Eden at Palais Amani. I had heard so many good things about it, and it did not disappoint.


Discover authentic Moroccan hospitality at Dar Roumana—your serene oasis nestled within Fez's vibrant Medina.

Savor authentic Moroccan flavors at Les Jardins de Sheherazade, where traditional cuisine meets enchanting ambiance in Fès.

Experience the exquisite fusion of Moroccan and French cuisine in a historic palace setting at Eden at Palais Amani.
As I sit here, reflecting on the day's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Fes has a way of captivating your senses and stirring your soul. It's a city where history and culture intertwine, where ancient traditions meet modern life, and where every corner holds a new discovery. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Bab Boujloud, Place Rcif, and the Henna Souk. I am eager to see what other treasures this magical city holds. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore, and to share my experiences with all of you.

I am so glad I decided to come to Fes with my friends. It's always wonderful to see new places, but it's even better when you have people to share the experience with. I am looking forward to the rest of our trip!

What a journey this has been so far! I am so happy I decided to come to Fes, and I can't wait to see what else this magical city has in store for us.

And now, off to bed, dreaming of tagines and minarets. Good night from Fes!