The house is situated in Derb al Aqiba in the Qettanine quarter. This is a quiet residential street intersected by Zqaq Lbghal, meaning the ‘street of the mules’. The most important historic sites of Fez are nearby, and the house is also just 10 minutes walk from the Rcif parking area where you’ll find city buses and taxis. We will be happy to meet you here to show you the way to your new home and arrange transport for your luggage, free of charge. This is just one of the many services we offer to make your stay in Fez a happy one.
Dar Aqiba is built on three levels, and is a perfect example of Moorish architecture. There is a central courtyard similar to the style of ancient Roman houses. The rooms are found around the courtyard, giving you a great sense of space and at the same time plenty of light from above. The richness of the decoration is remarkable: the original zellij (mosaic) floors, the trickling wall fountain, the massive carved and painted cedarwood salon doors, and the intricately carved plasterwork like fine Brussels lace, masterfully painted with rich colours.
On the ground floor you’ll find the grand Moroccan salon, an absolute must in a traditional house. Here guests were greeted and shown true Moroccan hospitality. When you arrive, you’ll be given your first mint tea and shebakiya, sweet delicacies, before you settle in. Relax on the low sofas around the walls, lit by the great brass lamp – a real taste of ‘a thousand and one nights’!
On the ground floor is the kitchen, with its cosy breakfast corner, local breads, jams, honey and fruit. The kitchen has everything you need: pots, pans, plates, cutlery. Fez’ largest food market is a ten-minute walk away, so you can try your hand at food shopping, truly part of the Fez experience. If you’d like to experience the best of Moroccan cuisine, you can hire lalla, who will prepare you one of her tasty tagines or couscous.
See Part 2 >
