Getting Lost in the Maze of Fes: Exploring the World’s Largest Car-Free Urban Area

Ready to get lost in the labyrinthine streets of Fes’s medina?

Navigating the labyrinthine streets of Fes, the largest car-free urban area in the world, can be a challenge even for the most seasoned traveler. But with the help of a knowledgeable guide like Meryem Ameziane, you can unlock the secrets of this ancient city and discover its hidden treasures.

Fes, the oldest imperial capital of Morocco, is a city that never ceases to amaze. Its medina, the historical heart of the city, is a maze of 10,000 twisting alleyways that can leave even the most intrepid traveler feeling lost. But fear not, because Meryem Ameziane, a local tour guide and expert navigator of the medina, is here to lead the way.

Ameziane, who was born and raised in Fes, has spent her life exploring the nooks and crannies of the medina. Even after almost 10 years as a tour guide, she is still discovering new corners of this ancient labyrinth. She fondly recalls getting lost as a child and relying on the kindness of strangers to find her way home. This sense of community is at the heart of Fes’s medina.

As you wander through the medina, you’ll be transported back in time. The buildings here date back to the ninth century and are a testament to the rich history of this city. From the intricately designed Medersa Bou Inania to the beautifully restored Nijjarine Museum, Fes’s architectural wonders are a sight to behold.

One of the most unique experiences in Fes is a visit to the Chouara Tannery. This historic tannery, located within the medina, is the largest of its kind in the world. To reach it, you must navigate through a leather shop and climb a staircase to an open terrace. From there, you can overlook the tannery and witness the traditional process of tanning hides using natural materials.

But Fes’s medina is not just about its architectural wonders; it’s also a sensory overload. The bustling markets, filled with colorful spices and pottery, offer a glimpse into Moroccan daily life. The food quarter is a paradise for food lovers, with its tantalizing array of flavors and aromas. From the wafer-thin warqa made by a skilled woman to the freshly made feta cheese sold by a friendly vendor, there’s something to delight every palate.

Despite the chaos and the cacophony, there is a sense of tranquility in Fes’s medina. As you walk through the narrow streets, you’ll encounter peaceful courtyards and hidden gardens, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, and where the past and present coexist in harmony.

As my time in Fes comes to an end, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia. The memories I’ve made here will stay with me forever, even if I can’t remember exactly where that restaurant with the white walls and high ceilings was located. But that’s the beauty of Fes’s medina – it’s a labyrinth of mystery and enchantment, where every turn reveals something new and unexpected.

So, if you’re ready for an adventure like no other, get lost in the maze of Fes’s medina. With a knowledgeable guide like Ameziane by your side, you’ll navigate its twists and turns with ease and uncover the hidden treasures of this remarkable city.

• Fes is the oldest imperial capital of Morocco, known for its intricate maze of alleyways
• Ameziane, a local tour guide, has spent her life exploring the medina and can navigate its twists and turns with ease
• The medina is home to stunning architectural wonders, such as the Medersa Bou Inania and the Nijjarine Museum
• One of the most unique experiences in Fes is visiting the Chouara Tannery, where hides are still tanned using traditional methods
• Fes’s medina is a sensory overload, with vibrant markets, delicious food, and a rich cultural heritage

Fes’s medina is a world unto itself, a place where time stands still and ancient traditions thrive. From its stunning architectural wonders to its vibrant markets and delicious food, there’s something to captivate every traveler. So, why not embark on a journey through the maze and discover the magic of Fes for yourself?