Southern Tower, Military watchtower in Fes, Morocco
The Southern Tower is a stone fortification on a hillside in Fez with thick defensive walls and Renaissance architectural elements. The structure features strategically placed artillery positions designed to protect the structure and surrounding areas.
The tower was built during the Saadian dynasty in the 16th century as part of a defensive network to protect Fez from rival groups. This period marked a shift in how the city fortified itself against external threats.
The tower shows a blend of Moroccan and European building styles, where local stonework meets Portuguese fortification techniques. Visitors can see this cultural exchange reflected in the wall details and construction methods.
To reach the tower, follow the path from Tala'a Kebira street and walk up to the top for the best views. Wear good shoes and allow time for the climb, as the path can be steep and uneven in places.
From its position, the tower provides a complete view of the medina, allowing visitors to study the medieval street layout and city organization. This makes it a valuable vantage point for understanding how the historic city was structured.
Location: Fez
GPS coordinates: 34.05403,-4.97000
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:45
Fes preserves centuries of Moroccan history through its streets, mosques, and workshops. The medieval old town brings together religious schools such as Medersa Bou Inania and Al-Attarine Madrasa, where students studied theology and law since the 14th century. The blue gate of Bab Bou Jeloud marks the entrance to the medina, where Rue Talaa Kebira leads through old Fes. The Kairaouine Mosque has stood at the center of the city since the 9th century and houses one of the oldest universities in the world. Museums like Dar Batha display traditional ceramics and woodwork, while the Nejjarine Museum focuses on historic wooden crafts. The city also documents military history through Borj Nord and Borj Sud, two 16th-century fortresses that once guarded the medina. The Marinid Tombs sit on a hill above the city and offer views across the rooftops of Fes. In the Jewish quarter of Mellah, synagogues like Ibn Danan recall the centuries-long presence of the Jewish community. Palaces such as Dar el Makhzen with its golden gates and traditional tanneries like Chouara show how crafts shaped the city's economy. The Jnan Sbil garden provides a quiet contrast to the dense buildings of the old town.
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