[2025 Fes Attraction] Travel Guide for Al Attarine Madrasa (Updated Jun)

Stepping into Fes feels like traveling back in time. Known as Morocco’s cultural and spiritual capital, this city is home to the world’s oldest university, ancient medinas, and a rich artisan heritage. Every street, alley, and souk tells a story of history, tradition, and craftsmanship. The Enchanting Medina – Fes el-Bali The Medina of Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most intact medieval cities in the world. Getting lost in its maze of narrow alleys, bustling souks, and centuries-old mosques is part of the experience. Unlike Marrakesh, Fes feels more raw and authentic—here, life continues much as it has for centuries. The Famous Tanneries One of the most iconic sights in Fes is the Chouara Tannery, where leather is dyed using traditional methods that have remained unchanged for generations. From the terraces above, the view of the colorful dyeing pits is both stunning and fascinating. Al-Qarawiyyin – The World’s Oldest University Founded in 859 AD, Al-Qarawiyyin University is recognized as the oldest continuously operating university in the world. Though non-Muslims can’t enter the prayer hall, the library and surrounding architecture are worth admiring. A City of Artisans Fes is known for its handmade ceramics, intricate zellige tilework, and fine brass and copper crafts. Watching artisans at work in their small workshops gave me a deep appreciation for the city’s dedication to preserving its heritage. Final Thoughts Fes is not just a city—it’s an experience. It’s a place where history, tradition, and daily life blend seamlessly. Whether wandering through the medina, admiring ancient architecture, or exploring its vibrant souks, Fes is a destination that stays with you long after you leave. #celebrateit #fez #morocco #travel

My visit to the Medina of Fez was a mesmerizing plunge into the heart of Moroccan history and culture, a journey through time in one of the world's largest living medieval cities. Enclosed by ancient walls, the Medina of Fez, or Fes el Bali, is a labyrinth of narrow streets, vibrant markets, and historic madrasas, all echoing the rich tapestry of life that has pulsed through its veins for centuries. Navigating the winding alleys felt like walking through a maze designed in a different era. The absence of vehicles, replaced by donkeys and carts, added to the authenticity and charm of the experience. Every turn revealed a new treasure, from intricately carved doors to hidden courtyards adorned with mosaic tiles. The air was filled with the scent of spices and the sound of craftsmen at work. The tanneries, in particular, offered a vivid glimpse into traditional Moroccan leather production. Overlooking the tannery pits from neighboring terraces, I watched artisans work with natural dyes in a spectrum of colors, a practice unchanged by time. A highlight of my exploration was the Al-Attarine Madrasa, a marvel of Marinid architecture. The attention to detail in the zellij tilework and cedar wood carvings spoke volumes of the artistry and intellectual legacy of Fez. The serene atmosphere of the madrasa provided a moment of contemplation amidst the bustling city life outside its walls. The culinary journey through the Medina was equally captivating. From savory pastilla and rich tagines cooked over open flames to sweet mint tea and freshly baked bread, each flavor was an invitation to savor the essence of Moroccan cuisine. The food stalls and traditional restaurants tucked away in the alleys offered authentic experiences, blending taste with the cultural ambiance of Fez. Visiting the ancient Al-Qarawiyyin University, considered the oldest continuously operating educational institution in the world, was a profound reminder of Fez's historical importance as a center of learning and spirituality. The surrounding libraries and mosques enriched the narrative of a city deeply rooted in knowledge and faith. The Medina of Fez demanded more than just a visit; it required immersion. The sensory overload, from the visual feast of Islamic art to the cacophony of sounds in the souks, was overwhelming yet intoxicating. Engaging with the locals, whether through a smile or a shared cup of tea, broke down barriers, revealing the warmth and hospitality intrinsic to Moroccan culture. My journey through the Medina of Fez was an unforgettable exploration of a city that has managed to retain its soul amidst the sands of time. It was a vivid encounter with the past, lived out in the present, offering a glimpse into a way of life that continues to thrive within the ancient walls of this historic city. #falltrip#mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks

The Al-Attarine Madrasa, also known as Medersa al-Attarine, is a stunning madrasa located in Fes, Morocco, near the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque. Constructed between 1323 and 1325 by the Marinid sultan Uthman II Abu Said, this architectural gem takes its name from the adjacent Souk al-Attarine, the spice and perfume market. The madrasa’s rich and harmonious decoration and its efficient use of limited space make it one of the highest achievements of Marinid architecture. Its exquisite courtyard, adorned with traditional Marinid patterns, stands as a testament to the intellectual and artistic legacy of medieval Morocco. A place where scholars once gathered, it continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty. #christmastrip

#celebratewithtrip After breakfast, a local guide will bring me around Fes and walk at the medina. We headed to the Bab L'Makhzen, which is the palace door to the Royal Palace for a quick photo and explanation of the art work, the gate is located in Rue Bou Ksissat, Fes. Borj Sud known as the southern tower located in Av.Borj S, is a fort in the city of Fes, first established around 1582, overlooking the old city. The school of mosaic and pottery, followed by the walk around the medina. Al Attarine Madrasa located in Rue Talaa Kebira inside the medina, built in the 14th century was known as passionate patrons of madrasas, centers of religious learning. The university of Al-Karaouine ( under restoration, so view from a silk shop terrace ) was founded in 859 and is considered by UNESCO and the Guinness Book of World Records to be the oldest continually operating university in the world.