Home to the oldest university in the world, Fes is the oldest and largest medieval city in Morocco and represents the zenith of Morocco’s cultural and historical mélange.

Often noticed, but not truly appreciated are some of the finest features of the city. They merit more than just a passing glance by tourists and citizens alike.

The Guardian of Culture

Take just a step inside the old medina of Fes (Fes El Bali) and one can feel the weight of history engulfing its great walls.

Spontaneous, graceful, strong and compelling, the old city enfolds its visitors in a timeless bubble, embodying the epitome of Islamic history and cultural diversity.

Founded by the Prophet’s descendant, Idriss I in 789 AD, and nourished in the traditions of Islam by its inhabitants from North Africa and Andalusia,  Fes underwent  great cultural and historical transformation.

In 809, Idriss II established the seat of the Idrisid dynasty, bringing the city further in its development.

In 819, the city’s ruler welcomed more than 8,000 families from Andalusia to settle in Fes.

Seven years later, Jews and Kairouan populations migrated to Fes and brought their silk, traditions, and artisans marking greater development and diversity in the city.

Thus, the rich heritage of these diverse cultures, religions, and values burst forth to become Morocco’s cultural, and religious center of today.

The Mystery of Keeping Time When you Cross into Time

Walking in the Old Medina of Fes is like walking into a time warp; one is immediately transported into the past. One of Fes’s oldest landmarks is a water clock.

It was built by timekeeper, Abu al-Hassan Ibn Ali Ahmed Tlemsani, in 1357 to mark the correct times of the call to prayer.

Known as Magana Bouanania, the water clock holds behind its wooden design and sculpture the secret of one of the oldest and most unique ways to tell time.

This puzzled scientists for centuries until they finally figured out how it works.

Consisting of 13 windows and platforms carrying brass bowls, the clock was driven by a small cart, which ran from left to right behind its beautifully carved twelve doors.

Source: BNA