Fez is a city that seems suspended in time, a maze of historical treasures that beckons to travelers seeking the soul of Morocco. Visiting this ancient imperial city in February 2022 offered a unique glimpse into a world where tradition intertwines with the subtle influx of modernity.
Stepping into the Medina of Fez is like entering another era. The UNESCO-listed Fes el Bali is the best-preserved medieval city in the Arab world, ripe with a history that dates back to the 9th century. In February, the weather is cool, with fewer travelers, providing a more intimate encounter with the city. Wandering through the labyrinthine alleyways, the air is filled with a symphony of sounds: vendors calling, artisans at work, and the occasional mule cart rickety-clattering past.
The medina is home to iconic tanneries, such as the famous Chouara Tannery, where the ancient practices of leather dying take place in colorful dye pits. The view from the surrounding terraces shows a vibrant palette of reds, yellows, and blues, even in the softer light of winter’s touch.
Among the medina's narrow streets, one finds the Bou Inania Madrasa. This marvel of Marinid architecture stands as a testimony to the Islamic golden age in Fez. This period was a time of great scholars and learning, and the madrasa's intricate tile work and woodcarvings are as awe-inspiring today as they must have been centuries ago.
The University of Al Quaraouiyine, another majestic landmark, holds the record as the oldest existing, continually operating and the first degree-awarding educational institution in the world by UNESCO and Guinness World Records, further solidifying the city's academic heritage.
February is an ideal time to delve into the culinary scene of Fez without the hustle and bustle of peak seasons. The city is famous for its rich Moroccan dishes, such as tagines and pastillas, which are often enjoyed in the ornate settings of converted riads.
Particularly delightful are the food markets brimming with fresh produce. Here, one can savor seasonal fruits like the citrus which is abundant during this month. The cool weather is perfect for a comforting bowl of harira, a traditional Moroccan soup filled with lentils, chickpeas, and a melody of spices sure to warm both body and soul.
Fez serves as a repository of Moroccan cultural heritage, and visiting during February offers a chance to experience the cultural fabric without the overflow of tourist crowds. One may encounter traditional Sufi music festivals, storytelling events, and local craftsmen at work in silver and copper souks.
The annual Fez Festival of Sufi Culture typically takes place in April, but preparations and smaller related events can sometimes be observed in the preceding months, offering a taste of what's to come.
The moniker 'Mecca of the West' is apt for Fez, as the city's spiritual and historical significance is palpable. In February of 2022, the peaceful ambiance, combined with the city's enduring culture and mystique, offered a uniquely serene travel experience. Fez, with its timeless allure, continues to captivate the hearts of travelers who seek to peel back the layers of time and delve into the depths of Morocco's rich history and culture.
