Kasbah An-Nouar, Military fortress in Fez, Morocco
Kasbah An-Nouar is a fortified enclosure on the northwestern side of the Fez medina with closely built residential houses connected by narrow passages and lanes. Inside the walls stands a Friday mosque with its minaret visible from outside, and an open-air market operates in front of the main gate called Bab Chorfa.
The Almohad dynasty built this military fortification in the 12th century as a strategic stronghold. In the 17th century, settlers from the Tafilalt region migrated here and established themselves, reshaping the population and cultural identity of the enclave.
The kasbah housed a tight-knit community that organized itself through local leadership and collective decision-making structures. Daily life revolved around the shared spaces within its walls and the traditions of the residents who called it home.
Access is through the main gate Bab Chorfa, where the daily market creates a lively entry point and good orientation. Exploring the narrow lanes inside requires patience and time, and visiting early in the morning helps avoid crowds and makes navigation easier.
For several centuries, entry to this enclave was restricted to Muslims of a specific descent, maintaining its exclusive and insular character. This rigid boundary lasted until the 20th century, when restrictions gradually loosened and the walls became more open to outsiders.
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