Exploring the Historical Charms of Fes with Friends

Wandering Through Time in Fes

Today was a day of diving deeper into the soul of Fes. It's amazing how a city can hold so much history and culture within its walls. Lena and I, along with our friends, ventured out to explore some of the spots that were highly recommended, and let me tell you, they didn't disappoint. From museums showcasing intricate Moroccan art to the solemn history of the Mellah, every corner had a story to tell.

Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Le Tarbouche. I'd read about their Tagine de Kebab, veal marinated in onion and paprika sauce, and it sounded like the perfect way to kick off a day of exploring. The restaurant was cozy, with a charming, slightly cramped outdoor seating area which was perfect for people-watching. The tagine was indeed flavorful, the meat tender, and the sauce rich. Lena opted for a traditional Moroccan salad, which she thoroughly enjoyed. It was a great start to the day, and fueled us up for the adventures ahead.

Our first stop was the Dar Batha Museum. Housed in a stunning 19th-century palace, the museum is a treasure trove of Moroccan art. Before becoming a museum in 1915, the building was a beautiful palace of Arab-Andalusian style. As a brewery quality control specialist, I have a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, and this museum was filled with it. The intricate designs of the ceramics and pottery were particularly captivating. I learned that the famous Fez blue color is derived from cobalt, a detail that fascinated me. The woodwork, metalwork, and textiles were equally impressive, each piece telling a story of the region's rich artistic heritage. Lena was particularly taken with the Andalusian Garden, a serene courtyard filled with orange trees and fragrant flowers. It was a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling city, and we took a few moments to relax and admire the architecture of the palace.


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

The beauty of Fes lies not just in its monuments, but in the stories whispered through its ancient streets.

Next on our list was the Andalusian Mosque. Like its counterpart Qarawiyyin Mosque, the Andalusian Mosque began as a small, modest neighborhood mosque, but became the congregational mosque of the quarter in the 10th century. The mosque's present appearance is the result of a series of additions and reconstruction dating from between the tenth and fourteenth centuries. As we approached, the sounds of the city seemed to fade away, replaced by a sense of tranquility. The architecture was stunning, a testament to the rich history of Fes. The intricate details of the minaret and the grand entrance transported us back in time. The mosque was founded in 859 AD by Maryam al-Fihri, the sister of Fatima al-Fihri. Inside, the serene atmosphere was palpable, and we took a moment to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating such a magnificent structure.


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

After soaking in the spiritual ambiance of the mosque, we decided to delve into the history of the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter of Fes. This part of our exploration was particularly poignant, offering a glimpse into a different facet of Moroccan history. The Mellah dates back to 1438 and was the first Jewish quarter in Morocco. The name Mellah comes from a local toponym in Fes. The Mellah was established to protect the Jewish community from periodic revolts. Wandering through the narrow streets, we observed the unique architecture, with its enclosed hanging balconies. It was fascinating to learn that the Mellah once had 17 active synagogues; today, only two remain, carefully restored. The Jewish cemetery, with its thousands of white graves, was a sobering reminder of the community's long history and the lives that were lived here. It was a very moving experience, and it gave us a deeper understanding of the diverse cultural tapestry that makes up Fes.


Explore the historic Mellah of Fes, a vibrant Jewish quarter rich in culture, history, and unique shopping experiences, perfect for any traveler.

For lunch, we headed to Chez Hakim, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. I was eager to try their harira soup, and it didn't disappoint. It was rich, flavorful, and perfectly spiced. Lena opted for the chicken couscous, which she declared was one of the best she'd ever had. The prices were incredibly reasonable, and the atmosphere was cozy and welcoming. It was a great spot to relax and refuel after a morning of exploring.


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

In the afternoon, we ventured into the Royal Accessoires shop. I must admit, I'm not much of a shopper, but Lena and our friends were keen to explore the local crafts and souvenirs. The shop was filled with an array of traditional Moroccan items, from colorful ceramics to intricate metalwork. I found myself drawn to a beautifully crafted teapot, its silver surface adorned with delicate patterns. Lena, of course, had her eye on a set of hand-painted bowls, each one a unique work of art. The shopkeeper was friendly and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the history and craftsmanship of each item. We ended up purchasing a few small souvenirs to remind us of our time in Fes.


Explore Royal Accessoires in Fes for exquisite Moroccan fashion accessories that add a touch of elegance and style to your journey.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurant MB for dinner. Situated in Ville Nouvelle, it is worth the short taxi ride from the Medina. The restaurant had a polished and modern decor. The menu presented virtually unlimited options with its mix of French classics and Moroccan specialties. Every dish showcased technical expertise and quality ingredients. I started with the Traditional Pigeon Pastilla. The warqa pastry (similar to filo) on the outside was perfectly crispy. The pigeon filling was incredibly tender, and was mixed with almonds and sweet spices so there was a play of sweet and savoury flavors. Lena chose the Ocean Roll of Shrimp and Fish. Much like my pastilla, the wrapper was perfectly crispy, with a tender and tasty filling. For dessert, I had the roasted figs and ice cream. There was a lovely contrast between the berries served hot and the cold ice cream. It was the perfect end to a day filled with exploration and discovery.


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

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Borj Nord Museum, Jnan Sbil, and the Marinid Tombs. I'm particularly looking forward to visiting Jnan Sbil, as I have heard it's a beautiful and tranquil garden. We're also planning to check out Rooftop Nour Plazza for a drink in the evening, hoping to catch a beautiful sunset over the city. It sounds like another day filled with exploration and adventure, and I can't wait to see what Fes has in store for us.

Fes continues to surprise and enchant me. It's a city that engages all the senses, from the vibrant colors of the medina to the fragrant spices in the souks. Every corner holds a new discovery, a new story waiting to be told. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to experience this with Lena and our friends, sharing in the beauty and history of this remarkable place. As I reflect on the day, I am reminded of the importance of immersing oneself in the local culture, of taking the time to explore the hidden gems and to connect with the people and traditions that make a place unique. Fes is a city that stays with you long after you've left, a place that ignites the imagination and nourishes the soul.

And now, as the stars begin to twinkle above the ancient city, I raise a glass of local Moroccan wine to another day well spent, another chapter written in our Fassi adventure. Until tomorrow, dear readers, may your own journeys be filled with wonder and discovery.