Step into Dar Batha, a late 19th-century royal palace built under Sultan Hassan I and finished under Sultan Abdelaziz. Located near Bab Bou Jeloud at the western edge of Fes el-Bali, this former summer residence for distinguished guests now serves as the Al Batha Museum of Islamic Arts. Following a renovation completed in 2025, you will discover a vast rectangular courtyard framed by brick horseshoe arches, painted wooden galleries, and stunning colorful zellij mosaic tilework.
Why should you visit? The complex offers a peaceful Andalusian-style riad garden that makes up roughly 58 percent of the palace's total area. Divided into four sections around an ornamental central fountain, this lush sanctuary features palm trees, jacarandas, and hibiscus, creating a serene setting that today hosts live concerts and religious festivals.
Inside, you can explore a collection of over 6,500 historic artifacts arranged thematically across the palace rooms. Look for architectural pieces rescued from medina mosques and madrasas, including fragments from the Idrisid era and the historic 9th-century minbar of the Mosque of the Andalusians. You will also see the 14th-century minbar of the Bou Inania Madrasa, historical Qur'ans, astrolabes, traditional musical instruments, carpets, jewelry, and famous local ceramics in the iconic blue style of Fes.
What to see at Dar Batha
- Collection of over 6,500 artifacts including historical Qur'ans, astrolabes, and Fes blue ceramics
- Historic 9th-century minbar from the Mosque of the Andalusians and 14th-century minbar from Bou Inania Madrasa
- Vast central rectangular courtyard featuring colorful zellij mosaic tilework and ornamental fountains
- Andalusian-style riad garden filled with palm trees, jacarandas, and hibiscus
Visiting tips
Take time to explore the thematic rooms displaying ancient medina artifacts before unwinding in the quiet Andalusian garden.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Summer
How to get there & what’s nearby
Dar Batha is easy to reach on Fes’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Andalusian Mosque and Ibn Danan Synagogue. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Fes travel guide.
See the full Fes travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.