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Founded in 808 AD, Fez is the oldest imperial city
in Morocco. With its myriad mosques, the capital of the country
for 400 years became a religious and spiritual epicentre.
Fez is a city steeped in history. With architectural relics
from every era and modern amenities at a minimum, it offers
visitors a fascinating insight into the past.
Fez is situated in the Atlas Mountains in Northern
Morocco, where the ancient trade routes between the western
Saharan empires, the Atlantic and the Mediterranean crossed
paths. For this reason Fez has always been a bustling commercial
centre, and visitors who wander through the ancient medina,
Fez el-Bali will discover the authentic Moroccan shopping
experience that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Shoppers Paradise
Aside from the modern town constructed in the mid 20th century,
Fez is divided into two areas: Fez el-Jdid and Fez
el-Bali. Fez el Bali is the old medina, where sites most
interesting to culture vultures and bargain hunters are located.
Fez el-Bali is a labyrinth of narrow, winding alleys,
almost impossible to negotiate without loosing your way. Although
you can hire a guide, most travellers are content to wander
aimlessly, giving in to the whirligig of unfamiliar sights,
sounds and smells.
The Medina itself is divided into different parts, known
as souqs, each specialising in a different craft, skill or
trade. The streets are crowded with stalls and workshops where
you can watch the artisans at work and put your bargaining
skills to the test. The sheer range of products you can buy
is mind-boggling: leather goods, textiles & yarns, carpets,
Moroccan pots, metal ware, jewellery, foodstuffs, henna…enough
exotic offerings to empty the pockets of even the most cautious
shopper.
Be aware that the Moroccans are accomplished hagglers. The
original asking price for any item will be several times it’s
true value, and customers are expected to participate in a
verbal contest before any deal is clinched. The golden rule
of bargaining is stick to your guns and don’t agree to
a price you’re not prepared to pay: if the vendor won’t
give you a good price simply walk away. Chances are they’ll
concede and come after you.
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