Al Attarine Madrasa
About This Museum
Stepping into the Al Attarine Madrasa feels like slipping through a crack in time, leaving the chaotic buzz of Fes's medina behind for the profound silence of a 14th-century scholarly sanctuary. You're immediately enveloped by a symphony of intricate zellij tilework, where thousands of hand-cut pieces form mesmerizing geometric patterns in cobalt blue, emerald green, and sunflower yellow. The centerpiece is a sun-drenched courtyard leading to a prayer hall topped with a breathtaking cedar dome, all drawing your eyes upward. It’s an almost overwhelming feast for the senses, a place that hums with the ghosts of ancient students and scholars.
Collection Highlights
The main 'exhibit' is the architecture itself—the stunning stucco-carved mihrab in the prayer hall and the grand calligraphic friezes running along the upper walls are the real masterpieces here. Don't miss peering into the tiny former student cells on the upper floor; they offer a poignant glimpse into monastic student life.
Visitor Information
It's tucked right off Rue Talaa Kebira in the heart of the medina, so wear comfortable shoes for the walk. It’s a relatively quick but unforgettable visit; you only need about 30 minutes to soak it all in, but you'll want to linger.
Architecture & Building
Exemplary Marinid architecture characterized by its ornate stucco carving, spectacular zellij mosaic tilework, and a grand central courtyard centered around a marble fountain, all showcasing peak Islamic art and design.
Contact & Location
Address: Madrasa al-Attarine مدرسة العطارين, Boutouil, Fès-Médina ⴼⴰⵙ-ⵎⴷⵉⵏⴰ فاس-المدينة, Arrondissement de Fès-Médina مقاطعة فاس المدينة, Fès ⴼⴰⵙ فاس, Pachalik du Fes باشوية فاس, Préfecture de Fès عمالة فاس, Fès-Meknès ⴼⴰⵙ-ⵎⴽⵏⴰⵙ فاس-مكناس, 30200, Maroc ⵍⵎⵖⵔⵉⴱ المغرب
Phone: +212 610-271328
