Makers of Morocco: finding local crafts and their creators in Fez

As today’s Fassi artisans face increasing competition from machine-made and imported goods, newly restored funduqs – ancient inns once used by travelling merchants – are being transformed into hubs for disappearing crafts, designers are breathing new life into age-old techniques, and you can go behind-the-scenes on interactive tours.

For centuries, the imperial city of Fez has been one of the world’s great craft centres. Along the medieval Medina’s twisting alleyways, time-honoured traditions of leather work, brass etching, woodcarving and more have been handed down through the generations.

Fez has a special atmosphere. This 13th-century city is an imperial city of long-lasting multicultural history, that reserves unexpected surprises for its visitors.

Cross the walls of the famous Medina of Fez, recognized by UNESCO as an outstanding universal value. Stroll through the streets of the Fez-El-Bali district. The Bab Boujloud is the easiest way to enter the Medina.

A city of ancestral arts :

In the Medina of Fez, time sometimes seems to stand still. Past its high walls, a crowd of craftsmen are busy making and selling typical handicrafts.

As you stroll its alleys, many buildings and institutions will hold your attention ; riads at the end of the street, "madrasas" near mosques, museums and art galleries stand perfectly in the heartland of Fez "El-Bali", which means "old".