Fes Royal Palace

القصر الملكي بفاس

The magnificent royal palace in Fes features ornate golden gates and intricate tilework that exemplifies traditional Moroccan palace architecture, though only the exterior gates are visible to tourists. The site showcases the grandeur of Moroccan royal heritage and the artistry of Fassi craftsmen.

Things to do

• Photograph the Golden Gates — Capture the iconic ornate brass and gold-leafed gates that form the palace's public-facing entrance, featuring intricate geometric patterns and calligraphy.
• Study the Zellige Tilework — Examine the hand-cut ceramic mosaic tiles adorning the gates and lower sections, representing centuries-old Fassi craftsmanship techniques.
• Explore the Surrounding Medina — Wander the narrow streets of the old Fes Medina adjacent to the palace, discovering traditional souks, artisan workshops, and local life.
• Visit During Midday Light — Return at noon when sunlight illuminates the golden gates and tilework most dramatically, ideal for photography and appreciating architectural details.
• Observe Guard Ceremonies — Watch the uniformed royal palace guards in their traditional dress standing ceremonial watch at the gates throughout the day.

Food to try

• Pastilla (Bastilla) — A savory-sweet phyllo pastry filled with spiced pigeon, almonds, and eggs, dusted with powdered sugar, representing Fassi haute cuisine found in nearby riads and restaurants.
• Tajine of Lamb with Prunes — Slow-cooked tender lamb with dried prunes, onions, and warming spices like cinnamon, a royal-inspired dish served in traditional clay vessels throughout the medina.
• Harira Soup — A rich tomato-based soup with chickpeas, lentils, and meat, traditionally eaten at sunset during Ramadan and available year-round in local eateries near the palace.
• Fes-Style Briouat — Crispy fried pastries filled with minced meat, onions, and spices, or sweet versions with almond paste, a specialty street food of the Fes Medina.
• Fresh Moroccan Mint Tea and Almond Cookies — Serve yourself traditional gunpowder green tea with fresh spearmint and homemade almond cookies (ghoriba) at cafés overlooking the palace district.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Respectfully — Wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees as you approach the palace, particularly important out of respect for the royal site and surrounding conservative residential areas.
• No Interior Access — Remember that the palace interior is closed to tourists; the experience centers on appreciating the exterior architecture, gates, and the significance of the building itself.
• Photography Etiquette — Ask permission before photographing the guards, and avoid pointing cameras directly at uniformed personnel, as they are ceremonial officials protecting royal property.
• Visit Early Morning or Late Afternoon — Arrive before midday crowds gather in the medina and when palace guards are most alert and ceremonially positioned for an authentic experience.

Nearby

• Fes Medina — 2 km
• Fes — 2 km
• Bhalil — 8 km
• Sefrou — 30 km