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Traditional pottery district where artisans create the famous cobalt-blue Fassi ceramics.
About this experience
Fes is famous for its cobalt-blue pottery (Fassi blue) and zellij (mosaic tilework), and the main pottery district is in the suburb of Ain Nokbi (near Bab Ftouh), just outside the medina's southern gate. Here you can visit workshops where artisans have been creating handmade ceramics using traditional methods for centuries. Watch as potters shape clay on foot-powered kick wheels, then workers paint intricate geometric and floral patterns using natural plant-based dyes before firing in ancient wood-fired kilns. The famous Fassi blue color comes from cobalt oxide - a technique perfected by local artisans. Most workshops sell directly with prices significantly lower than medina shops (since you're at the source). The sprawling cooperative includes multiple workshops, showrooms, and kilns. For zellij, artisans chip each tile piece by piece from large monochrome tiles, then assemble them into complex geometric mosaics - a process largely unchanged for a thousand years. The larger showrooms have spectacular displays of tagines, plates, fountains, serving dishes, and decorative tiles. Many workshops ship internationally. It's fascinating to see the entire process from raw clay to finished product - a great activity for those interested in craftsmanship. The area is accessible by petit taxi (about 15 MAD from Bab Bou Jeloud). Allow 1-2 hours to explore multiple workshops[citation:4][citation:7].
Insider Tips
- Prices are significantly lower here than in the medina (source direct)
- Watch artisans at work - mornings are best when kilns are firing[citation:4]
- Many workshops ship internationally if you buy large items
- The Fassi blue (cobalt oxide) is unique to this region[citation:7]
- Petit taxi from Bab Bou Jeloud costs about 15 MAD
Best Time to Visit
Best experienced during: Morning 9 AM-12 PM (artisans working), Weekdays