Royal Palace (Dar el-Makhzen)★★
The Royal Palace of Fes (Dar el-Makhzen) is one of the largest palaces in the world at 80 hectares — but you will only see it from the outside. The palace is the official residence of the king in Fes and not open to the public. The reason for a visit is the famous seven gates (Bab es-Seba), which are among the most photographed motifs in Morocco.
The Seven Gates
The massive brass gates with their geometric patterns, framed by green Zellij mosaics on a white background, are a masterpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship. The seven horseshoe arches symbolize the seven days of the week and the seven heavens of Islam. The gates are most beautiful in the late afternoon when the sun makes the brass glow golden.
Fes el-Jdid
The palace is located in the district of Fes el-Jdid (the new Fes, founded in 1276 by the Marinids) — which is more spacious and quieter compared to Fes el-Bali. Here is also the former Mellah (Jewish quarter) with its distinctive architecture: wooden balconies instead of courtyards, narrow alleys, the Ibn Danan Synagogue (17th century, restored, entry 20 MAD), and the Jewish cemetery with its white tombstones.
💡 Tipp
Combine the palace visit with a walk through the Mellah and the Jardins Jnan Sbil — the beautiful royal gardens (freely accessible) right next to the palace, with lakes, palm trees, and benches in the shade. Perfect for a break between Medina explorations.
