As summer transitions into autumn, the golden light that characterises this time of year envelops the city of Fez, marking a shift in pace and ambience. The city awakens to a different rhythm, one that is characterised by a softer, more spiritual and deeply cultural essence. Many people consider October to be one of the most pleasant times to visit the imperial city, and it is also widely regarded as one of the most inspiring.as it is the month of the Festival of Sufi Culture and World Wisdom.
A celebration of spiritual art and living heritage
The sound of Qadiri and Aissawa chants fills the medina’s courtyards, blending with the aromas of incense and the call to prayer. At Bab Makina, the city’s iconic open-air venue, performances unite the earthly and the divine.
This year’s edition, themed “Living Poetically: Art and Spirituality,” explores the connection between art and wisdom. It reminds us that culture can be both celebration and meditation.
A Tradition of Inspiration
Beyond the festival, autumn in Fez is a time to reconnect with Moroccan traditions. Visitors can:
- Indulge in a traditional hammam, where time-honoured rituals purify both body and mind.
- Experience Andalusian music during intimate evenings in traditional riads or cultural centres.
- Discover Moroccan craftsmanship, from handwoven fabrics to finely detailed ceramics — timeless reflections of Moroccan artistry.
Each of these experiences highlights the deep bond between music, craftsmanship, and spirituality, giving daily life in Fez its unique sense of meaning and grace.
Autumn invites travellers to slow down and embrace the city’s serene rhythm. Wander through quiet medina lanes, sip mint tea in secluded courtyards, and reflect amidst an atmosphere of calm and inspiration.
Mariem Trifi
