El-Jamai Palace, 19th-century palace in Fez, Morocco
El-Jamai Palace is a 19th-century residence in Fez that features elaborately carved stucco, zelluij mosaic tilework, and Andalusian gardens with traditional fountains near the Bab Guissa gate. The structure contains multiple courtyards, columned halls, and rooms arranged in the classical Moroccan style.
The building was constructed in 1879 by Grand Vizier Muhammad Ibn al-'Arabi al-Jāmi'i during Sultan Moulay Hassan's reign. It later became a hotel in 1919 and has undergone major restoration work in recent decades.
The palace displays traditional Moroccan architectural elements with detailed geometric patterns, handcrafted woodwork, and decorative metalwork in its interior spaces. These artisanal details reflect the building practices typical of the city and mirror local craft traditions that visitors can observe throughout the residence.
Visitors should know the palace sits within medieval ramparts and is best reached on foot through the medina streets. The site may be closed for renovations or private events at times, so it is wise to check access beforehand.
The palace overlooks the labyrinthine streets of the medina where craftspeople maintain their workshops in the same manner as for generations. This proximity to an active craft community gives visitors direct insight into how traditional artisans work daily.
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