[2025 Fes Attraction] Travel Guide for Mosque and University of al-Qarawiyyin (Updated May)

#summerdestinations Escape to the enchanting city of Fes this summer and immerse yourself in the heart of Moroccan culture! 🌞✨ As one of the country’s oldest imperial cities, Fes is a mesmerizing blend of history, tradition, and vibrant life. Stroll through the ancient medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where every alleyway tells a story. Discover bustling souks filled with colorful textiles, aromatic spices, and exquisite handicrafts. 🏺🧣 Visit the world’s oldest university, Al Quaraouiyine, and marvel at the stunning architecture of centuries-old mosques and palaces. 🕌📚 Experience authentic Moroccan hospitality in charming riads, where you can unwind with a cup of mint tea in tranquil courtyards. 🌿🍃 Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie eager to savor traditional Moroccan dishes, or a wanderer looking to lose yourself in the magic of a timeless city, Fes is a must-visit destination. Make Fes your summer travel adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime! 🗺️❤️

📍Fez, located in Morocco, is the first Islamic city in North Africa and is known as a thousand-year-old city. 🔹Fes is composed of an old city and a new city. The old city is one of the largest existing typical medieval-style cities in the world. 🔸The old town has a maze of more than 9,000 streets and alleys. Even the GPS will fail. People who get lost easily must pay attention⚠️but it also has fascinating scenery. 🔹Fez Royal Palace Although the main entrance looks very gorgeous, the palace is still used as the royal family's office and residence from time to time, so the interior is not open to the public. 🔸Burilu Blue Gate A must-visit place in the old city. The color of the entire door is full of mysterious sapphire blue, because the walls are covered with blue mosaic tiles, creating a mysterious pattern and a very Islamic style. 🔹Karouin Library This is the oldest yet unknown Islamic library in the world. 🔸Dye factory Fez's ability to produce high-quality dyed leather undoubtedly relies on workers jumping into large dyeing vats one after another to massage the sheepskin to make it softer. Following thousands of years of ancient methods, no chemicals are added, but natural ammonia is used to soften the leather, making it easier to color. ⚠️ Google navigation is not available, but you can use markers to get an approximate idea of ​​your location and direction. #morocco #fes #fespalace #brulululanmen #karuinlibrary #dyeworks

❤Reasons to visit: Fes el Bali—Morocco's time capsule from a thousand years ago. Fes is one of Morocco's oldest imperial cities, and its medina (old city) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the most complete medieval Arab city in the world. With its maze-like alleys, ancient Quranic schools, and traditional leather workshops, time seems to stand still here in the Middle Ages. 🌟Highlights: [One] Al-Qarawiyyin University: 📜 The oldest university in the world (founded in 859), certified by Guinness World Records! [Two] 🕌 Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter, but you can admire its magnificent Islamic architecture from the entrance. [Three] Bou Inania Madrasa: 🌿 The only religious school in Fes that allows non-Muslims to enter. A masterpiece of Marinid architecture, the carved cedar wood and plaster decorations are breathtakingly beautiful. [Four] The infamous but must-visit leather tannery 🏭 The world's oldest handmade leather workshop, using traditional methods of dyeing for thousands of years (pigeon droppings + natural dyes). 📝Tips: 🗺 The old city of Fes has more than 9,000 alleys, and Google Maps doesn't work here! It is recommended to hire an official guide (approx. MAD 200–300/half day), or follow the general direction of the crowd. 🛒 Along the way are dense shops selling copperware, pottery, spices, carpets, etc. Start bargaining at least from 1/3 of the price! 🚉Transportation: Transportation: About 7 hours by train or 1 hour by plane from Marrakesh. Accommodation recommendation: Stay in a traditional courtyard homestay in the old city to experience Moroccan hospitality.

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

Fez Medina, a city steeped in history and cultural charm, is introduced below: History and Culture - Historical origins: Founded in 808 AD, Fez was the first Islamic city in North Africa and has been Morocco's religious, cultural, and artistic center for over a thousand years. It served as the capital of Morocco for 700 years, witnessing the rise and fall of numerous dynasties. - Cultural heritage: Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981, the medina covers 250 hectares and boasts a largely intact 17-kilometer-long wall, preserving a rich Arabian ambiance. Architecture - Overall layout: Composed of the old city (Fes el Bali), the new city (Fes Jdid), and the Ville Nouvelle (new city), Fes el Bali is one of the world's largest and most well-preserved medieval cities. Its labyrinthine network of over 9,000 alleyways adds to its mystique. - Characteristic architecture: Bab Bou Jeloud (the Blue Gate) is the main entrance to Fes el Bali, its blue and green tilework creating a striking visual contrast. The Al-Attarine Madrasa and the University of Al Quaraouiyine, one of the largest mosques in North Africa and one of the oldest universities in the world, is supported by 270 columns and constructed with marble and other materials. Traditional Crafts - Leather production: The Chouara Tannery is a famous local attraction, its leather production techniques passed down through centuries. Hundreds of dyeing vats, arranged like a painter's palette, still employ traditional dyeing methods, including the use of pigeon droppings for hair removal and dyeing. - Other crafts: Other craft workshops specialize in copperware, carpets, and mosaics. These products are renowned worldwide. Buildings adorned with blue mosaic tiles, mosaic interior decorations, and mosaic crafts displayed in shops are ubiquitous throughout the city. Local Cuisine - Couscous: Morocco's national dish, couscous is made with steamed semolina, vegetables, and meat, cooked in a saffron-infused broth. - Tagine: A slow-cooked stew prepared in a traditional earthenware pot. Various tagines, such as lemon-preserved chicken legs, lamb with prunes, and vegetable tagine, each offer unique flavors. - Mint tea: A signature drink made with green tea, mint leaves, and a generous amount of sugar, symbolizing Moroccan hospitality.

【Introduction】: —Morocco, a country of half sea and half desert. Entering Morocco is like stepping into a magical and romantic country. Here, you can feel the unique charm of the ancient and modern intertwined, and experience an exotic journey. From the hustle and bustle of the open-air market to camel riding in the desert; from the tranquility of the blue town to the historical precipitation of the ancient city of Medina, this Morocco travel guide is for you. ⛺【Things to Do】: Marrakech: Djemaa el-Fna: Feel the lively market atmosphere and enjoy traditional performances. It is more prosperous at night and is a good place to experience the life of the Moroccan market. Bahia Palace: Appreciate the exquisite architecture and gardens, and feel the charm of traditional Moroccan architecture. Casablanca: Hassan II Mosque: The building is magnificent and the details are exquisite. Some of the buildings extend into the Atlantic Ocean, where you can enjoy spectacular sea views. Miami Beach Avenue: Enjoy the seaside scenery and a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere. Fez: Fez Old City: Stroll through the narrow streets and feel the historical charm of the ancient city. You can visit the ancient leather tannery, mosque, and seminary. University of Al Quaraouiyine: Learn about Morocco's educational history and academic culture. Sahara Desert: Merzouga: As a gateway to the Sahara Desert, you can participate in camel riding activities here, enjoy the magnificent desert scenery, and experience desert camping. Chefchaouen: Blue Town: The whole town is painted in bright blue, giving people a sense of tranquility and fantasy. You can stroll through the narrow streets here and enjoy various blue buildings and beautiful scenery. 【Food Recommendations】: Tagine: Local specialty food Roast whole lamb: An important food in Berber cultural rituals Berber pizza: A delicacy created in the Sahara Desert, with a crispy crust and tender filling 👉【Itinerary】: Casablanca - Marrakech - Ouarzazate - Merzouga Day - Fez - Meknes - Rabat Loop 🧡【Preparation】: You can recommend items to bring before the trip. Morocco is visa-free for China, with a single entry of no more than 90 days. When taking photos of others or outdoors, be prepared to tip or buy something to avoid taking photos of local women, as most women are averse to being photographed by foreigners or strangers. Casablanca, Casablanca-Settat, Morocco, Africa

Morocco is an Islamic country with a long history. As the former imperial city of Fes, it has a unique religious atmosphere. It not only has the oldest university in the world, but also has more than 30 mosques🕌 and 6 religious colleges. In the eyes of the world today, Harvard, Yale, and Tsinghua and Peking University immediately appear in the minds of the world's institutions of higher learning. However, more than 1,000 years ago, students traveled across mountains and rivers just to reach Fiskarouin, a mysterious academic palace. The first degree-granting university in the world at the time. Walking into Karouin College, the square courtyard is surrounded by enclosed buildings, which belongs to the classic Moroccan style. It is not only the first university in the world, but also famous for its exquisite Islamic architectural art. The stone carvings and wood carvings on the eaves and walls, as well as the mosaic puzzles everywhere, have beautiful color combinations, various forms, and fine workmanship. They reflect the artistic charm everywhere, which is pleasing to the eye and has a bit of historical charm. The University of Al-Qarouin was founded in 859. Its history is more than 200 years earlier than the University of Bologna, the mother of European universities. It is also a mosque🕌. Al-Qaluin can be called the oldest university in the world and the first university in the world👍👍👍

Quranic School: Attracts numerous students and scholars to settle in Fez. Everywhere you look there are exquisite Moorish carvings. University of Al Quaraouiyine: One of the oldest existing universities in the world, it is an institution that teaches and disseminates the Quran, and is 300 years older than the University of Oxford. Al Quaraouiyine Mosque: It is also the oldest and most important mosque in Fez. It is also the largest mosque in Morocco. There are many more places worth visiting in the old city...

Fez, the spiritual and cultural heart of Morocco, offered an immersive journey into a city where time seems to stand still within the walls of its ancient medina. Entering Fez el Bali, the world's largest car-free urban zone, I was enveloped in a labyrinth of narrow lanes, brimming with centuries-old crafts, vibrant markets, and the rich tapestry of Islamic architecture. The medina's lifeblood is its souks, where artisans practice traditional crafts passed down through generations. From the intricate weaving of Berber carpets to the delicate art of zellij tilework, every corner revealed the depth of Fez's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. The sounds of hammering from the copperware souk, the scent of spices and tanned leather, and the sight of donkeys laden with goods navigating the alleyways provided a sensory feast that was both overwhelming and exhilarating. The architectural crown of the medina is the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University, founded in 859 AD, making it one of the world's oldest universities. Although access to the mosque is restricted to Muslims, the glimpses of its grand courtyard and the knowledge of its historic significance as a center of learning and spirituality added a profound layer of awe to my exploration. Another gem within the medina is the Bou Inania Madrasa, an exemplary model of Marinid architecture. The madrasa, open to visitors of all faiths, showcased stunning Islamic calligraphy, cedar woodcarvings, and the detailed stucco work that adorns its walls and facades. The tranquility of its inner courtyard, with a central fountain and the play of light and shadow, offered a moment of serenity amidst the bustling city life. Fez's culinary landscape was a journey through Moroccan flavors, where traditional dishes like tagine and pastilla are not just meals but a celebration of the country's rich agricultural bounty and culinary traditions. Dining in a traditional riad, with its ornate decor and open courtyard, provided an intimate glimpse into Moroccan living and hospitality. The tanneries of Fez, particularly the Chouara Tannery, presented an unforgettable sight. Overlooking the tannery from neighboring terraces, I witnessed the ancient process of leather dyeing, unchanged for centuries. The vivid colors of the dye pits and the labor-intensive process were a testament to Fez's enduring artisanal traditions. Exploring Fez was like walking through a living museum, where every turn offered a story, a slice of history, or a window into the daily lives of its inhabitants. The city, with its unparalleled historical depth, architectural beauty, and vibrant culture, left an indelible mark on my heart, capturing the essence of Morocco's timeless allure. #mytravelhacks#historicallandmarks#localguides