Fes

Fes retains a historic urban ensemble formed by Fes el-Bali and Fes Jedid. The older settlement developed around two quarters separated by the Fez watercourse; the later town to its west incorporated royal, military and residential functions. Together they preserve contrasting but connected parts of the city's fabric.

Domestic buildings, commercial spaces and religious institutions remain closely integrated within the medina. Its architecture combines local construction and decorative skills with Andalusian, eastern Mediterranean and African influences. The continuity of these trades is important to conservation, while building deterioration and development pressure around the historic enclosure present persistent challenges. Fes's cultural role is expressed through this inhabited fabric and its working traditions.