Morocco (Part 2: Fes)

In Fes we are staying at none other than Riad Myra!  A perfect name (if not spelled a bit different from our Mira) and an amazing place.  Riads are former homes in the medina that have been turned into guest houses.  We were told that riads are what used to be “middle class” homes. Traditionally, there are no windows on the outside of any of the homes and it all looks the same on the outside so you cannot tell how much wealth the family has.  The intent was for integrated communities.  Once you get inside, the homes are built around a central courtyard which would typically have a garden. 

We were lucky to stay in Fes for four nights and finally have more time to relax.  We had another amazing guide the first two days who specialized in Jewish history.  We saw the Jewish area (which is always next to the palace) and explored the Jewish cemetery which was really striking.  Not surprisingly, Johanna’s favorite tomb was a Jewish “saint” who was known for helping people who were innocent and wrongfully accused (after he experienced the same).  Since so many of the Jews moved to Israel, all of the current caretakers of the cemetery are Muslim.  We also saw the Ibn Danan synagogue built in the early 17th century, including the underground mikvah.  

After the Jewish area, we went to see the Royal Palace and also the University al-Qarawiyyin, often recognized as the oldest operating university in the world.  

We also spent a lot of time wandering through the medina. Fes is known for its craftwork, particularly mosaic tiles, detailed plasterwork, leather, weaving, and carpentry.  We learned about many of the crafts, visited a famous tannery, and also went to other souks to see where things are made.  After lunch in the medina, we went outside the city to visit the mosaic cooperative where the adults had a tour and the kids took a class: they were able to make some pottery using a manual wheel, create a mosaic with hand-cut pieces, and paint pottery.  They had a blast!  Later the kids even got henna tattoos.  

We spent our last day catching up on school and work in the beautiful courtyard of the riad.  Next up is the Sahara Desert!