Destination Guide

Fes and the Middle Atlas: Culture, Spiritual Legacy, and Cedar Forests

Central Morocco features Fes and the Middle Atlas region, known for historic medinas, Islamic scholarship, and mountain landscapes. From the bustling corners of Fes to cedar groves in Ifrane and Azrou, these destinations merge medieval tradition and scenic peaks. Below are the six highlights of Fes, Kairaouine Mosque and University, Meknes, Volubilis, Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, Ifrane and Azrou, each shedding light on Morocco’s depth of faith, architecture, and nature. Explore the historical sites in Morocco that offer a glimpse into the country’s rich past and cultural heritage.

Table of Contents

1. Fes: Morocco’s Spiritual Hub

Leather dying in a traditional tannery in the city Fes, Morocco.

Founding and Growth
Idris I established Fes in the late 8th century. Idris II expanded it, bringing scholars and merchants from Andalusia and beyond. The blend of Islamic teaching and trade shaped its medina and daily life.

Places to Visit in Fes

  • Fes el-Bali (Old Medina)
    A UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring stalls of pottery, leather, and fragrant spices.
  • Bab Boujloud (Blue Gate)
    A bright tiled gateway leading into the maze of the old city.
  • Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
    Reflects the history of Morocco’s Jewish community, with unique architecture and restored synagogues.

Why Visit Fes?
Fes bathes travelers in centuries of deep culture. Its medina holds tanneries, carved mosques, and the bustle of everyday life, revealing Morocco’s layered past and modern energy.

2. Kairaouine Mosque and University: A Center of Islamic Thought

Al-Attarine Madrasa, Beautiful architecture of school in Fes old town, Morocco.

Background
Founded in 859 by Fatima al-Fihri, Kairaouine became a leading institution for Islamic studies. UNESCO and Guinness World Records recognize it as one of the oldest universities in operation.

Areas to Explore

  • Islamic Scholarship
    Scholars advanced theology, philosophy, and scientific ideas across North Africa.
  • Design Details
    A wide courtyard, carefully carved arches, and Andalusian-inspired plasterwork show Morocco’s artistic traditions.
  • Library
    Holds historical manuscripts, though it may not always be open to the public.

Why Kairaouine Matters
Kairaouine symbolizes Morocco’s legacy of learning and cultural exchange. It underscores the nation’s tradition of intellectual pursuit.

3. Meknes: An Imperial Gem of Sultan Moulay Ismail

Popular landmark - Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail in Meknes, Morocco.

Historical Glimpse
Raised to imperial rank in the late 17th century, Meknes owes its grandeur to Sultan Moulay Ismail, who wanted a capital worthy of global comparison. The city’s robust walls, gates, and granaries reflect his wide-reaching plans.

Places to Visit in Meknes

  • Bab Mansour
    A large gate with delicate zellij (tile) and tall pillars, often labeled one of North Africa’s finest.
  • Heri es-Souani (Royal Granaries)
    Ingenious engineering sustained the sultan’s vast stores.
  • Meknes Medina
    A UNESCO site with a calmer pace than Fes, offering souks and quiet courtyards.

Why Visit Meknes?
Often overshadowed by other imperial cities, Meknes provides an easy-going atmosphere with deep historical layers. The mix of grand buildings and a smaller medina appeals to those wanting fewer crowds.

4. Volubilis: Traces of Ancient Rome in Morocco

Volubilis site,Meknes province in Morocco.

Early History
Local Amazigh settlements shaped Volubilis before the Romans arrived in the 1st century AD. Olive oil production fueled prosperity under Roman governance. After the Roman era, the structure fell into disuse, yet the ruins remain in good condition.

Places to Visit in Volubilis

  • Triumphal Arch
    Built in honor of Emperor Caracalla, marking an impressive entry to the area.
  • Mosaics
    Detailed floors depict myths and everyday scenes from Roman life.
  • Capitol and Basilica
    Show how civic and religious matters were organized.

Why Visit Volubilis?
Volubilis provides a glimpse of North Africa’s time under Rome, with sweeping views of surrounding fields. It’s a favorite day trip from Meknes or Fes for those interested in archaeology.

5. Moulay Idriss Zerhoun: Sacred Town on a Hillside

Beautiful panorama of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, Morocco.

Short Background
Named after Morocco’s founding saint, Moulay Idriss I, this site was once limited from non-Muslim access. It now welcomes visitors who want to see local devotion and daily life rooted in religion.

Places to Visit in Moulay

  • Panoramic Views
    Built on two hills near Mount Zerhoun, overlooking olive groves and farmland.
  • Moulay Idriss Mausoleum
    While non-Muslims cannot enter, the surrounding lanes radiate strong spiritual significance.
  • Pilgrimage Customs
    Six visits here are said to equal one pilgrimage to Mecca, reflecting local beliefs.

Why Visit Moulay Idriss?
This small town offers a respite from busy cities, plus a closeness to Volubilis. Its spiritual tradition and hilly streets add depth to any Middle Atlas itinerary.

6. Ifrane and Azrou: The Cedar-Filled Middle Atlas

Cute Barbary macaque ape monkey , Ifrane national park, Morocco.

Setting and Story
Ifrane, developed in the 1930s by the French, feels like a European alpine village with chalets and tidy streets. Nearby Azrou has been a trade spot for many years, set in cedar forests known for wildlife.

Places to Visit in Ifrane and Azrou

  • Cedar Groves
    Particularly around Azrou, these forests shelter Barbary macaques (monkeys) and cool walking paths.
  • Ifrane National Park
    Encircled by lakes, it’s good for hikes, picnics, and winter sports under snow.
  • Al Akhawayn University
    Founded in 1995, it offers an international angle that sets Ifrane apart.

Extra Note on Local Culture
Look for local produce like mountain honey and forest herbs sold in weekly markets (souks). In Azrou’s souk, farmers bring fresh goods and handmade crafts.

Why Visit Ifrane and Azrou?
Dubbed “Little Switzerland,” Ifrane has clear air, gardens, and a neat town layout. Meanwhile, Azrou’s bustling market, plus the cedar forest home to macaques, shows the daily rhythms of Middle Atlas life.

From Imperial Cities to Cedar Forests: Exploring the Middle Atlas

Fes and its surrounding Middle Atlas region present:

  1. Faith and Scholarship
    Kairaouine University and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun highlight traditions of knowledge and devotion.
  2. Royal and Ancient Landmarks
    Meknes’s imperial designs and Volubilis’s Roman-era mosaics reflect many chapters of Morocco’s past.
  3. Natural Respites
    Ifrane and Azrou feature cedar forests, calm lakes, and sightings of native wildlife, a contrast to busy medinas.

By respecting local customs, picking responsible travel services, and offering help to local businesses, visitors contribute to preserving these cultural and natural sites. Whether you tour the narrow lanes of Fes, stand among Roman columns in Volubilis, or seek crisp mountain breezes in Ifrane, this region packs in spiritual depth, historical highlights, and scenic variety that capture the essence of Central Morocco.

If you have more time, consider day trips combining city tours, ancient sites, and forest hikes. A winter visit could add snow experiences in the Middle Atlas, while spring or autumn allows comfortable exploration of medinas and mountain trails.