Founded in the 8th century by Idriss I, Fes is the oldest of Morocco's four imperial cities and a must-visit destination in the country’s north. At the heart of this historic metropolis lies Fes el-Bali, a labyrinthine medina of twisting alleyways and bustling souks where skilled artisans continue to practice the same crafts that have graced the city’s mosques, madrasas and palaces for centuries.
To truly immerse yourself in Fes’ storied past, I’d highly recommend visiting some of its fascinating museums, which occupy beautiful palaces, riads and madrasas. Not only will you discover everything from ancient weaponry and royal regalia to exquisite examples of Moroccan woodwork, textiles and metalcraft, but you’ll enjoy a respite from the hustle and bustle of the medina outside.
In this article, I’ll introduce 7 of the best museums in Fes, including a 16th-century fort and an active synagogue.
For more information about visiting this ancient city, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Fes. If you're looking for accommodation recommendations, I've put together a list of the best riads in Fes, or you can browse some of the best Fes tours and day trips.
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Dar Batha
Commissioned by the Alaouite Sultan Hassan I in the late 19th century and completed under his successor Abdelaziz, this magnificent palace is a testament to Morocco's architectural and artistic brilliance. Today, Dar Batḥa functions as a museum of historical arts and crafts, boasting a vast collection of over 6,500 objects.
Situated within Fes el-Bali, Dar Batḥa lies adjacent to Dar el-Beida, an equally impressive palace that was once part of the same grand complex. Stepping into this Spanish-Moorish architectural masterpiece will transport you into a world of Moroccan craftsmanship, with everything from tiles to carvings and Fasi embroidery on display.
Among the highlights of Dar Batḥa is its renowned ceramic collection, which is widely considered one of the oldest and most impressive in the Arab world. Featuring pieces dating back to the beginning of the 14th century, it reflects the skilled artisanry of Fes's master craftsmen. After your visit be sure to stroll through the adjacent gardens, which embody a quintessential Andalusian aesthetic.
Opening hours of Dar Batha: 9 am to 5 pm (closed Tuesday)
Entrance fee for Dar Batha: 10 dh
Bou Inania Madrasa
Constructed between 1350-1355 CE under the patronage of Sultan Abu Inan Faris, this magnificent Islamic school reflects the height of Marinid craftsmanship. From its green-tiled minaret (visible from afar) to the intricate beauty of its internal courtyard, Bou Inania is a masterpiece and the only madrasa in Morocco that still functions as a congregational mosque.
Upon entering, you’re greeted by an exquisite central courtyard adorned with the signature elements of Marinid design. Carved stucco patterns cover the walls, complemented by vibrant zellije tilework. Overhead, the courtyard is capped by a wooden latticework ceiling that casts a warm, intricate shadow over the space below.
While the prayer hall section of Bou Inania is off-limits to non-Muslim visitors, the rest of the complex is open for all to explore and admire. You may even be able to catch a glimpse of the mihrab niche with its onyx columns, which is reminiscent of the Great Mosque of Cordoba. In my opinion, the Bou Inania Madrasa is an architectural highlight of visiting Fes and one museum you shouldn’t miss!
Opening hours of the Bou Inania Madrasa: 9 am to 6 pm
Entrance fee for the Bou Inania Madrasa: 20 dh
Best museums in Fes
Museum of Arms - Borj Nord
Established in 1582 by the powerful Saadi dynasty, this impressive fort was modelled after the fortified Portuguese outposts that dotted the region in the 16th century. Borj Nord is one of the largest and most significant military complexes in Fes and notable for its incorporation of European-influenced military architecture, reflecting the technological advancements that were transforming warfare at the time.
Today, the fort has been repurposed to house the Museum of Arms, which was established in 1963. It now features over 5,000 pieces originating from 35 different countries and spanning from prehistory all the way to the 20th century. During your visit, you can admire an extensive array of Moroccan arms, many of which were produced in Fes at the Makina, an industrial arms factory established in 1886 adjacent to the city's Royal Palace.
One of the museum's most noteworthy artefacts is an enormous Saadian cannon that was used during the 1578 Battle of Three Kings, which is considered one of the greatest Portuguese military defeats in history. While this museum is a “must” for military buffs, I’d also recommend visiting for the panoramic views of Fes that are on offer from its elevated setting.
Opening hours of the Museum of Arms: 9 am to 6 pm
Entrance fee for the Museum of Arms: 20 dh
Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts
Occupying a historic funduq, or caravanserai, this private museum is dedicated to showcasing the remarkable artistry and skill of local artisans. Funduq al-Najjarin was once a hub for merchants, traders and visitors to the city, providing them with a place to rest, store their goods and engage in commercial activities. This gorgeous building is seamlessly integrated into Al-Najjarin Square, notable for its striking fountain.
At the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, you can marvel at a stunning collection of decorative objects, musical instruments and exquisite furnishings, many of which illustrate the difference between Amazigh traditions and Andalusian designs. Highlights include the awe-inspiring door of the nearby Bou Inania Madrasa, together with wooden boards once used for Quranic recitations.
If you love woodwork (like I do), this Fes museum should be high on your list and the inclusion of captions in Arabic, French and English makes it an informative experience for a wide range of people. After your visit, you can grab a drink at the rooftop cafe, which offers wonderful views over the medina.
Opening hours of the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts: 10 am to 5 pm
Entrance fee for the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts: 30 dh
Best museums in Fes
Riad Belghazi
Housed within a 17th-century palace, Riad Belghazi is a private museum that’s run by the family who live here. What sets this museum apart from others in Fes is that fact that many of the artefacts on display are available for purchase. For antique lovers or those looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir, you may just find it here!
The architectural details of Riad Belghazi serve as the perfect backdrop for the museum's extensive collections, which showcase the remarkable skills and techniques of Moroccan artisans. In the first room, visitors are treated to a rich array of antique silver jewellery dating back to the early 18th century while the second room houses a stunning collection of silver pieces from the Saharan region. In the third room, you’ll find gold jewellery hailing from not only Fes but also Rabat and Tetouan while additional rooms exhibit Moroccan caftans, embroidered textiles and musical instruments.
If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love the opportunity to dress up like a local and have their picture taken, making this a family-friendly museum in Fes. Someone is usually on hand to guide you through the collection, but some visitors are taken back when asked for a “tip” for this service - check upfront with the guide if you think you’ll feel uncomfortable in this situation.
Opening hours of Riad Belghazi: 9 am to 5:30 pm
Entrance fee for Riad Belghazi: 40 dh
Ibn Danan Synagogue
Built in the 17th century to serve the Megorashim, or Jews expelled from Spain, this synagogue reflects the religious diversity of Fes in times gone by. It forms part of the Mellah, once the largest Jewish quarter in Morocco, and lies a short stroll from the Mansano Synagogue, both of which have been preserved with the help of the World Monuments Fund.
When visiting the Ibn Danan Synagogue, I was surprised by the Islamic and Moroccan design elements that have been incorporated into its architecture - this is particularly noticeable in the stucco decorations and the tiled border of the wooden ark doors. Take note of the octagonal pillars and the green herringbone floors, as well as the Moorish arched filigree screen.
Descending into the basement, you can see the mikvah, or ritual bath, filled by an underground water source, which was an integral part of religious life in the community. Throughout the space, black and white photographs of other Moroccan Jewish sites are displayed, offering a broader glimpse into the country’s Jewish heritage.
For more information about Morocco’s Jewish population and cultural sites throughout the country, check out my detailed article Discovering Morocco’s Jewish Cultural Heritage.
Opening hours of the Ibn Danan Synagogue: 9 am to 5 pm (closed Saturdays)
Entrance fee for the Ibn Danan Synagogue: Donation
Best museums in Fes
Al-Attarine Madrasa
Built in the early 14th century by the Marinid sultan Uthman II Abu Said, this former religious school takes its name from the nearby Souk al-Attarine, a bustling spice and perfume market that has long been integral to commercial life in Fes. Stepping into the madrasa's galleried courtyard, I was immediately struck by the incredible attention to detail that adorns every surface, from the intricate zellije tilework to the ornately carved stucco, and the delicate cedar woodwork.
This madrasa was once a place of learning, where students would study Quranic teachings before progressing to the prestigious University of al-Qarawiyyin next door (considered the oldest university in the world). Though no longer an active school, the Al-Attarine Madrasa has been meticulously preserved and its architectural splendour has to be seen to be believed.
The square prayer hall, with its soaring ceilings and ornate mihrab, is a particular highlight, showcasing the Marinids' ability to create spaces that are both functionally efficient and aesthetically breathtaking. Beyond the main courtyard, the upstairs sleeping quarters that once housed the madrasa's students offer a more austere glimpse into the daily life of this historic institution.
Opening hours of the Al-Attarine Madrasa: 9 am to 6 pm
Entrance fee for the Al-Attarine Madrasa: 20 dh
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.