Fes, Morocco’s Historic City – Sam’s Exotic Travels of 2011

Fes is one of Morocco's most historic ciiy - and well worth visiting, despite the fact that people in Old Fes dislike having their picture taken. Oh well, here's why it should be on your agenda: Fes el Bali (Medina of Fes) is the oldest and walled part of Fes, Morocco. Besides being famous for having the oldest university in the world Fes el Bali, with a total population of 156 000, is also believed to be the biggest car-free urban area in the world. Fes el Bali was listed by UNESCO as a world heritage site in 1981. One of the most interesting sites in the Medina is the oldest leather tannery in the world, which dates back at least nine centuries. The tannery is composed of numerous stone vessels filled with a vast range of dyes and various odorous liquids. The tannery processes the hides (skins) of sheep and goats, turning them into high quality leather products. The Royal Palace comprises of 80 hectares of land and its compound includes beautiful gardens, mosques and also an ancient school for Koranic studies that whose origin can be traced back to 14th century. General public are barred from entering the Palace but they are even an impressive sight even from outside. The garden doors are famous for their Giant Brass knockers that were made by special artisans from Fes El Bali. The Palace is also famous for the golden doors. The palace was built in the 17th century and it is situated right in the center if Fes el Jdid. Part of it still serves as the residence of the king of Morocco when he visits this area.