The UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes Morocco’s medieval city of Fez is the Medina of Fez. The city was founded in the 9th century and became an important center of learning, religion, crafts and commerce.
Fez developed on both sides of the Oued Fes and expanded under successive dynasties. Its historic medina contains dense streets, traditional houses, mosques, schools, markets and workshops. The urban fabric preserves the character of a major medieval Islamic city.
The Qarawiyyin Mosque and university complex is one of the medina’s most celebrated institutions. Fez also became a destination for Andalusian and North African scholars, artisans and merchants.
The Medina of Fez was inscribed on the World Heritage List in 1981. It should not be confused with the Medinas of Marrakesh, Tétouan or Essaouira, which are separate Moroccan World Heritage properties.