Fez, Morocco: A Timeless Medieval City Frozen in Time
Fez, Morocco’s spiritual and cultural heart, is the country’s second-largest city and one of its oldest continuously inhabited medieval settlements. Its sprawling Fes el-Bali medina—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is the world’s largest car-free urban zone, a labyrinth of 9,000+ alleys, centuries-old artisan workshops, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. 🚶♀️ Getting Lost (Literally) in the Medina No Google Maps: The medina’s tangled alleyways defy navigation—even locals get lost. Hire a Guide: Essential for uncovering hidden gems like: Al-Qarawiyyin University (founded in 859 AD, the world’s oldest degree-granting university) Bou Inania Madrasa: A 14th-century theological school with zellige tilework and carved cedar ceilings. 🌈 A Sensory Overload Spice Souks: Cinnamon, saffron, and cumin piled into colorful pyramids. Mystery Fruit: Tasted "Litchi" (not lychee!)—a sweet, chewy fruit locals compare to hawthorn. Artisan Quarters: Brass hammering, loom weaving, and pottery throwing—all unchanged for centuries. ⚠️ The Infamous Chouara Tannery 900-Year-Old Tradition: Watch workers dye camel, cow, and goat hides in rainbow vats using pigeon droppings and natural dyes. Survival Tip: The free mint leaves handed at the entrance? You’ll need them—the stench is legendary. #Fez #Medina #Morocco #SlowTravel #UNESCO