Fez Mellah (Jewish Quarter)
Fez Mellah (Jewish Quarter)

Fez Mellah (Jewish Quarter)

Fez

The basics

With its labyrinthine streets and vibrant markets, the Mellah rewards the curious traveler willing to take the time to explore its many hidden secrets. Highlights include the newly restored Ibn Danan Synagogue, which dates back to the 17th century, and the Jewish cemetery, the country’s largest. The Mellah is also home to a gold souk and a number of quality antique furniture stores. Be sure to visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, which houses a collection of religious artifacts from Morocco's Jewish community. While you can visit the district independently, some guided tours of Fez will take you to the Mellah.

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Fez in One Day: Qaraouiyine Mosque, Tanneries, Medersa & Mellah...
Fez in One Day: Qaraouiyine Mosque, Tanneries, Medersa & Mellah...
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$131.78 per adult
Traveler Favorite
Great Way to See Fes
A great way to see the entire city. We had a guide and driver to get us from one place to the next, and didn't have to wait in any lines. The guide was very knowledgeable and gave us great information everywhere we went. We wouldn't have been able to see or learn as much on our own, so we highly recommend it.
Bennett_S, Jan 2023

Things to know before you go

  • It’s important to dress conservatively to show respect for the local culture. Both men and women should avoid wearing tank tops, shorts, or other revealing clothing.
  • It’s customary to remove your shoes when entering a mosque or other religious site. You should also avoid wearing shoes inside homes, as this is considered disrespectful.
  • Head to the northwest section of the Mellah to discover the district’s most opulent homes, though be prepared to find many now in ruins.
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How to get there

Fez Mellah is located within the Fes el-Jdid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It can be reached by taking a taxi or bus to the Ain Azliten bus stop. The best way to explore the quarter is on foot, as many of the streets are too narrow for cars or buses.

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When to get there

The best time of year to explore this fascinating corner of Fez is spring and during the spring and fall months. Springtime is an especially good time to visit, as it coincides with the Jewish holiday of Passover, and visitors can experience the vibrant celebrations and traditions of the local Jewish community. While temperatures can dip quite low, the lack of crowds means you have the chance to fully appreciate the intricate architecture and stunning interior design of the Mellah's many synagogues and other buildings.

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The top foods to try in Fez

There are a few traditional Moroccan dishes that are particularly popular in the Fez Mellah. These include couscous, tagine (stew), and harira (tomato-based soup). There are also several kosher restaurants in the quarter that serve traditional Jewish foods like matzo ball soup and challah bread. They're often housed in converted old homes, offering an insight into the history as well as the delicious local cuisine.

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Frequently Asked Questions
The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
What are the nearest attractions to Fez Mellah (Jewish Quarter)?