Fes is the most complete medieval city in the Arab world. The most ancient of Morocco's imperial cities, it exists suspended in time. Descending into the labyrinthine alleyways of the Medina is like taking a giant step back to the Middle Ages. Preserved by the French for its historical value, this preservation also led to the decline of the city's importance, as both government and financial centers were set up elsewhere in the country. A citadel of magnificence, this age-old city is irresistible as it unfolds - in its every narrow - alley, wide street, old or new medina, palatial houses, or its hillside - the story of a whole civilization’s treasure, like Florence or Athens. From the first capital of the kingdom in 808AD, to the Imperial of all Imperial cities, Fes is a spiritual and cultural center with many facets.
