Aunque Fez experimentó un declive en su poder a principios del siglo XIX, sigue siendo una ciudad notablemente segura de sí misma con un patrimonio cultural y espiritual cautivador.

In its prime, Fez drew academics and thinkers, mathematicians and lawyers, theologians, and astronomers. Artisans built their homes and palaces, mosques, and madrasas (religious schools) were endowed by kings, and traders sold them exotic goods from the sub-Saharan and silk trade routes.

Even though some areas of the largest car-free urban area are still in ruins, government efforts to restore the city are beginning to bear fruit. Donkeys still transport goods through the maze of alleyways.

The Fez Medina is still home to about 90,000 people.

It can appear in a constant state of chaos; some visitors fall in love immediately while others recoil in horror. But it has many charms.

Apparent blind alleys lead to squares with beautiful fountains and streets bursting with fragrant food stands. A sea of minarets is revealed on the rooftops, and stooped doorways reveal tireless artisans.