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14th-century ruins offering the best panoramic sunset views of the entire Fes medina.
About this experience
The Merenid Tombs (also called the Tombs of the Merenids or the Marinid Tombs) are the ruins of royal necropolises perched on a hill overlooking Fes. While the tombs themselves are mostly ruined (locals used them for target practice in past centuries), the site offers the absolute best panoramic view of Fes el-Bali - the entire 324-hectare UNESCO-listed medina spread out below with the green tiles of the Qarawiyyin Mosque visible, the white buildings of the new city beyond, and on clear days, the distant Middle Atlas Mountains. The ruins date from the 14th century when the Merenid dynasty ruled Fes as the largest city in the world. The approach is a steep, switchback path from Bab Guissa in the medina (about a 15-20 minute uphill walk). Taxis can also drive up. The site is particularly magical at sunset when the entire medina glows golden and the call to prayer echoes from dozens of mosques simultaneously. Early mornings are also spectacular - watch the medina wake up as the sun rises over the mountains. It's a popular spot for locals, especially in the evening. Bring a jacket - it's windy and cooler than the medina below. This free viewpoint is essential for medina orientation and for photographers seeking the classic Fes panoramic shot[citation:7].
Insider Tips
- Sunset is the most magical time - the whole medina glows[citation:7]
- 15-20 minute steep uphill walk from Bab Guissa
- Bring a jacket - it's significantly windier and cooler than the medina[citation:7]
- A taxi back down is easy to find in the evening
- The tombs themselves are ruined but the viewpoint is the reason to come
Best Time to Visit
Best experienced during: Sunset, Sunrise, Golden hour