In the heart of Fes el-Bali, the old medina of Fez, Morocco, stands the historic palace known as Dar Moqri. The site is occupied by two grand residences built separately by members of the wealthy and powerful Moqri family but physically adjoining each other. The older palace was begun by Abdelsalam al-Moqri and was likely further modified by his son, Muhammad. A completely separate palace, known as Riad Driss Moqri, was built further north by Abdelsalam's son, Si Dris.
The size and richness of the residence reflect the family's wealth and their prominent positions within the royal government. In addition to its rich interior, the older palace is notable for its large terraced garden. The second palace, built by Abdelsalam's grandson Si Tayb, is notable for its long courtyard which mixes Italianate details with traditional Moroccan decoration.
Dar Moqri is located in the Ziat neighbourhood, an area that was a garden district until the 19th century. To the north, the large garden is divided into three terraces with views over the city. The lowest terrace is divided into four parts by two intersecting paths and a central fountain, planted with tall cypress trees. Small structures, including a former music pavilion and a former hammam, are built around the edges of the gardens.
Sources: Wikipedia, OpenStreetMap, Wikidata, Wikimedia Commons
Written by Mutabor
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