Fes served as the main capital of Morocco several times, starting under the Marinid dynasty in the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries. Fes is divided into two parts — Fes El Jedid, the newer medina, and Fes El Bali, the cultural and historical heart of the city, believed to be the largest pedestrianized area in the world. One of the first things that catches a visitor's eye is the astonishing sculptural ornamentation on buildings and monuments.
The medina is enclosed by an eight-kilometer wall. It is the heart of the city, where you walk with no cars around — thousands of alleys and forked streets packed with colorful souks, marvellous gates and all kinds of merchants, and endless rows of spices, foods and carpets.
After diving into the medina you can visit the world's oldest university, Al-Quarawiyyin, founded as a mosque in 859 and later one of the leading spiritual and educational centers of the historic Muslim community. The Bou Inania Madrasa, another Islamic school, showcases the beauty and creativity of Fes's architecture. And do not forget the remarkable Jnan Sbil Gardens — a place to relax and enjoy Fes's natural beauty.
