3 Best Sights in Fez and the Middle Atlas, Morocco

Moulay Idriss Medersa

An outstanding historic site from the Merenids, the Moulay Idriss Medersa was built in the 14th century by sultan Abou el Hassan. The medersa, hidden in the town's steep and twisting streets, has a striking cylindrical minaret constructed in 1939 that is the only one of its kind in Morocco, standing as testimony to Turkish and Arab influences. Originally built with materials from Volubilis, the minaret is decorated with green ceramic tiles bearing inscriptions of the 114 suras (chapters) of the Koran. Only Muslims can enter the medersa. 

Sidi Abdellah el Hajjam Terrace

From the Sidi Abdellah el Hajjam Terrace, in the Khiber quarter, you will have the best vantage point to see the holy village of Moulay Idriss and its sacred sanctuaries. The adjoining quarter across the gorge is called Tasga.

Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, Fez-Meknès, Morocco

Zaouia of Moulay Idriss I

This important shrine and mausoleum of the Idrissid dynasty's patriarch, Moulay Idriss I, who died in 791, is marked by a wooden bar so that people bow their head on entering. Entry is restricted to Muslims, but for a good view over the green-tiled minaret and rooftop of this landmark building, climb to a vantage point overlooking the religious sanctuary. The hike through the town's surrounding alleys up one of the many hills is invigorating and a symbolic bow to Morocco's secular and spiritual history. 

Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, Fez-Meknès, Morocco

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