Secret Fès

Fès, handicraft capital, can be proud of possessing a genuine artistic know-how for ceramic, woodworking and copperware crafts.

The medina

The old part of Fès with its numerous souks is a paradise for craftsmen whose timelessness will charm you. You must stroll through its alleys in order to truly appreciate the architectural marvels found there. Adobe and brick walls, pillars decorated with zelliges (mosaic tiling) and climbing patios are among the gems of the medina's refined architecture.

Fès blue

The famous cobalt blue is the signature of Fès pottery. Some of the most beautiful Moroccan ceramics come from this imperial city. You can admire superb collections in the Dar Batha Museum, situated near the Bou Inania medersa. After being baked for 24 hours and then slowly cooled, the pottery is covered with white tin-glaze. These ceramics are decorative rather than utilitarian. The craftsmen mix several ingredients in proportions kept secret to obtain this unique blue. Some green and yellow can be added to the predominant blue.

Wood

Cedar, rosewood, argan, pine, oak… Morocco has many types of wood used in marquetry and cabinetmaking. You will be will able to appreciate these skills by visiting the Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts which is housed in the beautiful Nejjarine foundouk. The craftsmen in this neighbourhood make furniture inspired by the palaces. The twill of the moucharaby is, for example, found on tables and armchairs. Sculptured elements, particularly doors and windows, are appreciated.

Initiatory tour

Fès has adapted to modern life without losing its traditions. Its habitants have almost the same way of life as they had in the 13th century. Its cooking has such a fine reputation that several HOTELS AND companies now organize courses of Fès cooking. During these participants visit markets, buy food and put what they have learnt in to practice. You can, also, enrol in pottery, calligraphy, Arabo-Andalusian music courses.