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Learn Arabic in Fez
About Fez
Fez is the oldest of the Imperial cities and is still considered to be the intellectual and spiritual capital of Morocco. Home to the Quarawin University (the oldest in the country) and one time capital of Morocco, Fez also houses one of the largest remaining medieval cities in the world. The Medina of Fez el-Bali, a UNESCO world heritage site, covers some 2,700 acres and is closed to cars etc, so animals are the main means of carrying heavy loads.
The traditional markets such as the Spice souq, with its endless array of peppers, rosemary, cumin, cloves, tumeric etc, the Henna souq where they produce the dye for hair colour and the famous Tannery, where the animal hides are prepared and turned into leather, are unforgettable experiences. Although be warned, the Tannery is not for those with weak stomachs. Next door to the Medina is the walled Fez el-Jdid, which includes the old Jewish quarter (the Mellah).
Home to 1.2 million people Fez, is a real step back in time, thanks to the French resident-general in the 19th century, Marshal Lyautey who did not destroy the old Moroccan towns but built Villes Nouvelles alongside them instead. This means that the modern world of 21st century business and technology inhabits the wide, straight boulevards off the new town, whilst the old traditions such as the carpet shops, jewellery and pot sellers and other small specialist shops remain within the walled confines of the Medina.
Fez in only 45 minutes by plane from Casablanca and is within easy reach of Western Europe, but it is a life time away and language students have to allow time to come to terms with it's distinct social and cultural setting. Morocco and Fez have a set of norms and values that will entrance but can also bewilder the first time visitor.
Local Specialities
Fez has a wonderful array of culinary delights to offer the visitor. The local cuisine is famed for it's Pastilla (a fabulous pigeon pie). You should also try Tagine (a regional traditional stew) and of course an array of couscous dishes accompanied by either vegetables or lamb casserole and Harira, a hearty soup usually eaten in Ramadan. Holidays are celebrated with wonderful almond paste sweets and of course the consumption of sweet mint tea is a Moroccan obsession!
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