If you fancy a touch of the exotic, why not take a short break to Morocco in North Africa? There is a regular ferry service from Malaga across to Melilla, the Spanish enclave on the North African coast from where you can enter magical Morocco.
The city of Fez is the cultural and spiritual centre of Morocco. It was founded in 790 BC by Moulay Idriss II and is the oldest of the three imperial cities. The most fascinating part of the city is the medieval Medina, which is the oldest part of the city, having being continually inhabited from the 10th century. The whole Medina of Fez was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1981.
Medieval Life
It is a maze of narrow streets filled with people in colourful outfits. Here people continue to live as they did in medieval times. You can see tanners at work treating skins, and the dye vats which are used to colour them, creating beautiful soft leather which is highly sought after. It’s a dazzling sight but unfortunately the smell is not quite so beautiful! It is a veritable rabbit warren and only the very brave, or foolhardy, venture in alone. Cars are banned but donkeys are everywhere. The best bet is to hire a guide…be prepared to haggle! Also, be very careful of your personal possessions.
The best vantage point over the ancient walled city, which lies at the eastern end of the plain of Saiss, bordered by the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, is from the ruined Merenid tombs on a hilltop. From here it is possible to view the skyline with its profusion of satellite dishes, and to pick out some of the magnificent palaces, green-roofed holy places and the Karaouine Mosque, all hemmed in by workshops and tenements, souks and squares, a mass of humanity, and the ubiquitous donkeys.
Beautiful Palaces
There are several beautiful palaces in Fez, including the Sultan’s palace. They are all well worth a visit as is the Dar Batha museum near the Bab Boujeloud Gate, which has restful gardens a roof terrace from where there is a spectacular view of the Medina.
The newer part of the city has a strong French influence and is known as Ville Nouvelle. This is the area where you will find the smarter hotels and restaurants.
Fez is captivating and colourful, an exotic place where time seems to have stood still, the perfect place for a modern day traveller to go back in time.
Amanda Payne - By Amanda Payne: Topic Editor for European Affairs. Amanda is a freelance writer with a special interest in Spain and all things ...
