Place Seffarine: The Coppersmiths' Square

The iconic coppersmith square with rhythmic hammering, gleaming brass, and Morocco's oldest madrasa.

About this experience

Place Seffarine is one of the most photogenic and atmospheric spots in the Fes medina - a small square entirely dedicated to copper and brass craftsmen. All day long, the square resonates with the rhythmic hammering of artisans shaping giant cooking pots, etched brass trays, intricate silver tea services, and magnificent filigreed lanterns. The noise is famous - it's the authentic soundtrack of Fes's craft heritage and has been heard here for centuries. The square is lined with small workshops where you can watch artisans at work using techniques passed down for generations. The finished goods are displayed outside each workshop - gleaming under the Moroccan sun. The adjacent square, Seffarine, is named after 'saffar' (coppersmith in Arabic). The Seffarine Madrasa from 1271 (the oldest madrasa in Fes) overlooks the square - students from Qarawiyyin University still study here. Photographers love the afternoon light glinting off the copperware. There's no pressure to buy but the craftsman-made copper and brass items are excellent quality (much better than machine-made imports). The coppersmiths welcome polite viewers. Don't miss the small street leading to the Attarine Madrasa nearby. The hammering sound is intense - bring earplugs if you're sensitive[citation:7][citation:10].

Insider Tips

• The afternoon light makes the copperware gleam beautifully for photos[citation:7]
• The hammering is LOUD - bring earplugs if you're sensitive[citation:10]
• Watch artisans actually working - it's real craftsmanship, not a show
• The Seffarine Madrasa (1271) overlooks the square - the oldest in Fes[citation:7]
• Excellent quality copper and brass items if you want to buy

Best Time to Visit

Best experienced during: Afternoon (light gleams on brass), Morning