Pink and mystical Fez is one of Morocco's imperial cities, founded in 808 A.D. by the Moroccan ruler Moulay Idris II.
The city is situated in a narrow valley against the backdrop of the Middle Atlas and positioned on the old crossroads of caravan routes connecting the Saharan empires such as Timbuktu and Takrur with the Atlantic and the Mediterranean shipping lanes. Fez remained a commercial centre for much of its history.
It is still considered Morocco's premier religious city by virtue of its great Islamic traditions. It is the site of Qarawiyyin Mosque and Qarawiyyin Madrasah, and is also the burial place of Moulay Idris II.
Apart from the European town built after World War II, Fez is divided into two distinct areas: Fez el Jdid (the new) and Fez el Bali (the old).
Textile and flour mills, oil-processing plants, tanneries, soap factories, and a large handicraft industry all can be found within the city of Fez.
Many people have moved from the older imperial city to the modern suburbs but the ancient city is powerfully compelling and it remains one of the world's great architectural treasures.
The Mosque and Tomb of Moulay Idris II
Considered one of the most sacred places in all of Morocco, the tomb of Moulay Idris II is a place of pilgrimage for Muslims from throughout Morocco and beyond. The atmospheric interiors are richly ornamented. Non-Muslims may not enter or even draw near the entrance.
Qarawiyyin Mosque
One of the largest mosques in Africa, the Qarawiyyin Mosque is also one of the world's most beautiful places of worship. For over a thousand years Muslim saints and scholars have congregated in its ornamental courtyard. It remains one of the most majestic monuments of Islam. | 
Other Moroccan Towns: