FES--MOROCCO

I knew that Morocco was a beautiful country with mystery, crafts and great food.  What I imagined was only a tease for what I have actually found.  The Medina is one of the 3 largest in the world, yet the roads are so narrow that cars cannot fit.  Garbage is collected twice daily by donkeys.  We spent the morning discovering what was hidden behind the old walls.  I was so glad to have an excellent guide or I might have become a permanent resident.

This is view of the incredibly crowded Medina behind the ancient city walls.  This city within a city was built in the 9th century.
Wandering the paths gives a glimpse into a very complex culture.  Morocco is colorful and has excellent food and crafts.

Chicken is very fresh and served with delicious olives.  This is augmented by excellent bread and vegetables. 

 

In addition to all the excellent food, the craftsmen of Fes are world famous.  The tannery shows how the workers create beauty from leather skins.  The hides are colored in huge vats and hung to dry before clothing and furniture creations are designed.  I have never seen so many beautiful colors for leather and the softness is not to be believed.  This is truly a shoppers paradise!

 

 

After exploring the Medina and some serious shopping it was time for lunch.  Friday is a day of celebration in Morocco as many stay home from work and enjoy lunch with family and friends after worshipping.  Today is Friday so we had the opportunity to eat like the locals and enjoyed the wonderful, traditional Couscous. It was a beautiful feast for both the eyes and the palate.  Also, given how many vegetables are included you can pretend that this is healthy!