  Fes is the spiritual capital of Morocco, and is famous throughout Islam as the seat of the internationally-known Karaouyne University founded about 1200 years ago. Fes has served as Morocco's political and spiritual capital several times in its history. Set inside a "bowl" formed by surrounding hills, the old city of Fes is a gem of Moorish-Andalusian architecture. Its delicate minarets, flat-roofed houses, narrow, winding streets, (some only 4 feet wide!), crowned by the imposing presence of the green-tiled Mosque of city founder Moulay Idriss, and of the Karaouyne, all combine to inspire poets and artists from all over the world. Fes offers striking contrasts between a city heading into the twenty-first century, and one which harks back to biblical times. The old medina, or Fes el Bali, is surrounded by massive ramparts, and encloses dozens of mosques which come alive five times a day when the muezzins summon the faithful to prayer with the sound of "Allah o'Akbar" (God is Great!). | Since the faithful are forbidden by the Holy Coran to flaunt their wealth, many of the plain wooden doors lining the medina's narrow alleyways often belie the wonders within. Here, large homes are built around an indoor atrium or courtyard with a fountain in the center. Most rooms open onto this cool, indoor garden, filled with trees or bushes. Fes is renowned for its handicrafts which include fine rugs, leather work and pottery, and also for the refinement of its local cuisine.  Mosque of Moulay Idriss II, founder of the city, and patron saint of Morocco. Karaouyne University and medersas, the famous Bou Jeloud Gate and the Nejjarine Square. The Batha Museum, Merinides Tombs, and royal palace esplanade with nearby mellah or ancient Jewish quarter. Fes' climate is ideal in spring and autumn Temperatures average 40F in January can rise to 97F in July. often overshadowed by neighboring Fes,although it also offers striking sights of its own. Indeed, Meknes is often used as a movie backdrop by film producers from all over the world. The city's most glorious days were under Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672-1727), a contemporary of Louis XIV of France, whom he tried to emulate. During his reign, the sultan attempted to construct the "Versailles of Africa!" His admiration of the French king was such that he even asked for Louis' daughter's hand in marriage. The union never took place but vestiges of Moulay Ismael's grandiose plans dot the city. Monumental gateway and walls which stretch for over 20 miles; stables built to accommodate the sultan's 12,000 horses; huge water cisterns used for irrigation, and a nine hole golf course. Average temperatures are the same as Fes. |
| Moulay Idriss is home to the sanctuary of its namesake, Morocco's patron saint. The picturesque little town is nestled in the hills of the Zerhoun, and is easily accessible from Meknes or Fes by a lovely country road. Not so long ago, non-believers were not allowed inside the city after dark. Nowadays, pilgrims flock to Moulay Idriss by the thousands at certain times of the year, and tourists are invited to climb up the narrow cobblestoned streets for a glimpse of the hillside town and an overview of the mosque. | Volubilis or "Oualilli" as it is known in Berber, easily ranks among the best preserved Roman towns in North Africa. Located barely 2 miles from Moulay Idriss, Volubilis was once the home of Cleopatra's daughter who eventually married the Berber King Juba II. Most recently, Volubilis served as a backdrop for the movie "Patton." |
