Dar al-Magana, Medieval water clock house in Medina, Fez, Morocco
Dar al-Magana is a medieval house in the Medina district of Fez that contained a sophisticated water clock mechanism. The building features twelve windows positioned above thirteen wooden shafts with brass bowls that indicated the time through changing water levels.
Sultan Abu Inan Faris commissioned the construction of this water clock house in 1357 as part of a major project for the adjacent Bou Inania mosque and Quranic school. The project reflected the building boom of the period when such structures demonstrated the realm's technical knowledge.
The building reflects medieval Moroccan craftsmanship through its water-powered timekeeping system designed by skilled mathematicians and engineers. Visitors can still observe the intricate mechanics and ornamental details that were remarkable for the period.
The building is located on Tala'a Kebira street in the old city and forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Fez. It can be reached on foot through the narrow winding streets and sits near other sites within the Medina.
The system used small metal balls that dropped hourly from tiny doors and struck brass bowls below to announce the time with sound. This ingenious design worked continuously until the early twentieth century before eventually falling into disuse.
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