Fez

• The state of Morocco is famous for many ancient cities, most notably the historic city of Fez, which was founded in the second century AH.

• It is considered the second largest city in the Kingdom of Morocco in terms of population, as its population exceeds nearly two million people, taking into account the calculation of its neighboring areas.

• The city of Fez is located in the north of Morocco, 198 km east of the capital Rabat, 796 km north of Agadir, and 291 km from Casablanca.

• Other cities that surround it are: Meknes and Kenitra.

• Fez is divided into three sections: Fez Bali (the old city), Fez Al-Jedid (the period of the thirteenth century AD), and the new city (the period of French colonialism).

• It was founded on the fourth of January of the year 808 AD, meaning that it is now more than 1206 years old, the city of Fez was founded by "Idris bin Abdullah" in the late second century AH, 172 AH, when he came to Morocco fleeing Abbasid persecution, he swing his ax (Fez) on the right bank of the Fez River, and it was named after his axe's swing.

• The Arab families of the villagers and Andalusians came to this city, and a number of residential neighborhoods were established in it, then a second city was established on the left bank of the river by "Idris II." The two cities were united by the Almoravids by Youssef bin Tashfin, and this city became of an important position in the north of Morocco.

• The city has witnessed many conflicts, and in each conflict, it was an important center in Morocco, and it is mentioned that it was the capital of Morocco from 1912 AD to 1956 AD during the period of French colonialism. The city lost its position after the transfer of the capital from Fez to Rabat, which was reflected in the migration of many of the city's citizens to other cities.

• Among the historical landmarks of Fez:

Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque: This mosque was founded in 857 AD by Fatima Al-Fihri. Since that period, the mosque has witnessed more additions, such as: the minaret that was added in 957 AD, and gypsum domes, and is characterized by arches, Quranic inscriptions, supplications, and the minbar built by the Almoravids.

Bou Inania School: It is the most famous school in Morocco, which was founded in 1350 AD by Inan Al-Marini to be an educational institution for students. It is famous for its beautiful dome, with elegant decorations, and the water clock, which is still a mystery that experts do not know about the technology of its operation.

Dar Al Batha Museum: It is a palace founded by Sultan Moulay Abdel Aziz in 1897 AD. It is characterized by the Spanish-Moroccan style, as it was designed for royal receptions, and was converted into a museum that includes artifacts and handicrafts in 1915 AD.

Al Attarine Madrasa: It is a beautiful urban masterpiece founded by the Marinid Sultan Abu Said Othman, surrounded by a prayer hall.

Bab Bou Jeloud: It is the main entrance to the city and is the most famous landmark in Fez. It is located in the northwest side, next to Al-Baghdadi Basha Square.

• The Moroccan city of Fez is famous for its strategic location, as it is considered of great importance in Morocco, because it is located in an area of great water abundance, where a plain called “Sais” erupts, which consists of several springs that gather and unite to feed the “Fez River.” Or rather, the many rivers of Fez, as Fez is known for its many rivers.

• The Sebou River and its tributaries also erupt in the city of Fez, which made this city has a very important and strategic location, and this city was able to withstand during the successive civilizations that succeeded it throughout history.

• The Moroccan city of Fez is also located in the fertile valley, which makes it in the middle of the surrounding hills, which surround it from all sides and directions.

• The city is also known for its proximity to forests, which contain abundant oak and cedar trees and from which high-quality timber is also extracted.