Fez, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, is a city rich in culture and history. It is known for its historic leather tanneries, enormous souks, and vibrant spirituality. The city is also home to some of the best museums in Morocco, covering various themes and catering to diverse interests.
Whether you are interested in history, culture, or art, Fez has a museum for everyone. With its fascinating museums and rich cultural heritage, Fez is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Morocco.
History of Fez
Fez is one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, founded in the late 8th and early 9th centuries by Idris I and Idris II. It is known for its rich history, culture, and spirituality, as well as its enormous souks and historic leather tanneries. The city boasts a number of museums that cover various themes and cater to diverse interests.
The museums in Fez have a long and fascinating history. The first museum in the city was the Batha Museum, which was opened in 1915 in a former palace built by Moulay el Hassan. The museum’s collection includes traditional Moroccan crafts and art, such as zellige tiles and tadelakt plasterwork, as well as archaeological artifacts and historical objects.
Another important museum in Fez is the Dar Batha Museum, which is dedicated to Moroccan arts and crafts. It is housed in a former summer palace of a sultan and has a beautiful garden. The museum tells the story of the unique architectural and interior features that can be found all over Fez.
The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts is another important museum in Fez. It is located in a restored caravanserai, or inn, that dates back to the 18th century. The museum’s collection includes a variety of objects made from wood, such as furniture, doors, and musical instruments.
Prominent Museums in Fez
Fez is home to several prominent museums that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. Here are some of the most noteworthy museums to visit in Fez:
Nejjarine Museum
The Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, located in the heart of Fez’s historic Medina, is a wonderful place to immerse oneself in Morocco’s rich tradition of woodworking. Housed in the beautifully restored Fondouk el-Nejjarine, an 18th-century caravanserai originally used as an inn for traveling merchants, the museum is a testament to the city’s past and its cultural heritage.
Across three floors, the museum showcases a fascinating collection of traditional Moroccan woodwork and artifacts, including antique tools, musical instruments, beautifully crafted chests, and wooden household items. Each piece reflects the intricate details and superb craftsmanship synonymous with Moroccan artistry. Informative plaques in English, Arabic, and French provide context and historical insight into the exhibits.
Apart from the collection itself, the building is an architectural gem, featuring a central courtyard, carved wooden pillars, detailed mosaic tilework, and a tranquil fountain. The museum also has a rooftop terrace that offers a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding Medina, making it a great spot to take a break and soak in the atmosphere of this ancient city.
Dar Batha Museum
Dar Batha Museum is a hidden gem for those interested in traditional Moroccan art and culture. Set within a 19th-century summer palace built by Sultan Hassan I, the museum is situated amidst a beautiful Andalusian garden, featuring fountains, orange trees, and varieties of roses. This tranquil setting offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling Medina.
The museum’s collection showcases a wealth of Moroccan arts and crafts, with a particular emphasis on the Fez’s artistic heritage. It houses an array of ceramics, including the world-renowned blue pottery of Fez, as well as collections of traditional metalwork, jewelry, textiles, carpets, and woodwork.
The museum’s standout piece is perhaps its collection of astrolabes, an ancient device used for solving problems relating to time and the position of stars, a testament to the Islamic world’s historical contributions to astronomy.
Also of note are the beautiful examples of traditional Moroccan stucco work and carved cedar in the museum’s architecture itself, reflecting the craftsmanship that the exhibits celebrate. Throughout the museum, information boards provide context and explanation in multiple languages, helping visitors appreciate the rich history and craftsmanship behind the pieces on display.
Belghazi Museum
Belghazi Museum, located in the Saiss region of Fez, is a lesser-known but highly significant cultural institution. This private museum is set in a charming 17th-century farmhouse and serves as a unique repository of Moroccan art, culture, and history.
The museum hosts an extensive collection of Moroccan arts, crafts, and antiquities across several exhibits. Visitors can explore a wide variety of artifacts ranging from traditional Berber costumes and jewelry, antique Amazigh silverware, ceramics, carpets, and ancient manuscripts to a collection of musical instruments. The museum’s vast assortment reflects the diverse cultural and artistic history of the region and offers a deep dive into the traditions of Moroccan heritage.
A highlight of the museum is its ethnographic collection, which provides fascinating insights into the rural and tribal life of Morocco. Life-size models of traditional Moroccan scenes, such as a Berber kitchen, a nomadic tent, and a Jewish silversmith’s workshop, among others, offer an immersive experience.
Aside from the exhibits, the museum complex itself is a delight to explore. The building is surrounded by a beautiful garden filled with olive trees, where visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll. An on-site restaurant serves traditional Moroccan cuisine, providing a culinary complement to the cultural experience.
Medersa Bou Inania
The Medersa Bou Inania, situated in the heart of the Medina of Fez, is one of the most beautiful examples of Marinid architecture in the city. A medersa is an Islamic school, and the Bou Inania, built between 1350 and 1355 by Sultan Bou Inan, served both as an educational institute and a congregational mosque.
The exterior of the Medersa Bou Inania is a stunning sight with its imposing green-tiled minaret. Inside, you will find a richly decorated courtyard that showcases the exquisite artistic and architectural styles of the period. The central courtyard is adorned with elaborate zellij (mosaic tilework), carved plaster, and cedar woodwork, creating a stunning blend of symmetry, color, and ornamental detail.
The prayer hall, flanked by beautifully carved wooden doors, is equally remarkable with its intricate stucco and woodwork. Its mihrab (a niche in the wall indicating the direction of Mecca) is decorated with zellij and intricate carvings. The medersa also features student rooms on two levels around the courtyard, offering a glimpse into the living conditions of theological students in the 14th century.
The Medersa Bou Inania is not only a key historical site but also an active place of worship. It’s one of the few religious places in Morocco that is open to non-Muslim visitors, making it an important destination for those seeking to understand the cultural and spiritual life of the city.
Collections and Exhibits
Fez boasts a number of museums with unique collections and exhibits that cater to diverse interests. Here are some of the most popular exhibits that you can explore in Fez’s top museums.
Pottery and Ceramics
Fez is famous for its intricate pottery and ceramics. The Dar Batha Museum houses a stunning collection of ceramics, including decorative plates, bowls, and vases. The museum’s collection showcases the evolution of Moroccan pottery from the 14th century to the present day. You can also visit the Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts to see a collection of colorful ceramic tiles that adorn the walls of the building.
Leather and Tanneries
Fez’s leather tanneries are a must-see attraction, and the Chouara Tannery is the largest and oldest of them all. The tannery produces high-quality leather goods that are sold all over the world. You can visit the tannery and watch the traditional leather-making process, which has remained unchanged for centuries. The Dar Batha Museum also has a fascinating collection of leather goods, including shoes, bags, and belts.
Woodwork and Carpets
The Nejjarine Museum of Wood Arts and Crafts is dedicated to showcasing the intricate woodwork of Fez. The museum houses a collection of wooden items, including doors, screens, and furniture. You can also visit the Bou Inania Medersa to see the stunning woodwork that adorns the building’s walls and ceilings. The Dar Batha Museum also has a collection of beautiful carpets that showcase the traditional weaving techniques of Fez.
Architecture and Doors
Fez’s unique architecture is one of its most attractive features. The Bou Inania Medersa is a prime example of the city’s stunning architecture, with its intricate zellige tilework and carved plaster. You can also explore the beautiful doors of Fez, which are adorned with intricate carvings and designs. The Dar Batha Museum has a collection of doors that showcase the city’s unique architectural style.
Visitor Information
Fez is home to several museums that showcase the city’s rich history and culture. If you’re planning a visit, here’s what you need to know:
Opening Hours and Entry Fees
Most museums in Fez are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the exception of Fridays, when they open at 2:30 PM. Some museums may also close during lunchtime, so it’s best to check their opening hours in advance.
Entry fees vary depending on the museum, but they are generally affordable, ranging from 20 to 50 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD). Some museums may offer discounts for students, children, and seniors, so be sure to bring your ID if applicable.
Guided Tours and Tips
Many museums in Fez offer guided tours, which can be a great way to learn more about the exhibits and the city’s history. Some museums also provide audio guides in multiple languages.
If you prefer to explore on your own, make sure to pick up a map or brochure at the entrance. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as some museums have multiple floors and require a bit of walking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best museums to visit in Fez?
Fez is home to several must-see museums, each with its own unique collection. Some of the best museums to visit in Fez include the Dar Batha Museum, the Museum of Moroccan Arts, and the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts. These museums offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of Fez.
What historical artifacts can be found in Fez museums?
Fez museums house a wide variety of historical artifacts, including traditional Moroccan clothing, ceramics, and jewelry. Visitors can also find ancient manuscripts, Islamic calligraphy, and traditional musical instruments. These artifacts provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Fez and Morocco.
What is the National Foundation of Museums in Morocco?
The National Foundation of Museums in Morocco is a government agency responsible for managing and preserving the country’s museums. The foundation oversees a network of museums across Morocco, including several in Fez. Its mission is to promote cultural heritage and education through the preservation and exhibition of historical artifacts.
What are some popular things to do in Fez?
In addition to visiting museums, there are many other popular things to do in Fez. Visitors can explore the city’s ancient medina, sample traditional Moroccan cuisine, and shop for handicrafts in the bustling souks. Other popular activities include visiting the Royal Palace, touring the historic leather tanneries, and taking a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Moroccan dishes.
How many days should I plan to spend in Fez?
To fully experience all that Fez has to offer, it is recommended to plan at least two to three days in the city. This will give you enough time to explore the museums, visit the medina, and take part in some of the other popular activities.
Why is Fez, Morocco a popular tourist destination?
Fez is a popular tourist destination because of its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning architecture. The city is home to some of the best-preserved examples of medieval Islamic architecture in the world, including the famous Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque and University. Fez is also known for its traditional handicrafts, including ceramics, textiles, and leather goods, which are sold in the bustling souks throughout the city.
