Dar Glaoui, also called Glaoui Palace or Palais Glaoui, is a historic palace in Fes el-Bali, the old medina of Fez, Morocco. Its scale, layered history and courtyard architecture make it a distinctive example among the historic houses in Fes.
- Location: Ziat (also spelled Ziyat), in southwestern Fes el-Bali.
- History: Attributed to Haj Omar Tazi and built in the second half of the 19th century.
- Architecture: A courtyard, fountains, zellij tilework, painted wood and carved stucco.
- Access: The palace is privately owned; confirm access arrangements before setting out.
Where Dar Glaoui is located
Dar Glaoui stands in the Ziat neighbourhood, also known as Ziyat and formerly called al-'Uyun, in the southwestern part of Fes el-Bali. The setting places it within the historic medina rather than in the modern city centre.
For orientation, map coordinates place the palace at 34.05905° N, -4.97708° W. Its address is given as 1 Rue Hamia Douh, Fes 30050, Morocco; check the official site before you go for current access information.
A one-day walking route in Fes from the Batha area can place the neighbourhood within a broader itinerary.
What makes the house notable
Dar Glaoui is notable for its size and the way its architecture brings water, decoration and multiple buildings together. The palace is attributed to Haj Omar Tazi, who built it in the second half of the 19th century; Madani Glaoui took possession of it in 1907.
The complex included as many as twelve houses, with annexes and facilities such as hammams, Qur'anic schools, stables, a cemetery and gardens. Its largest section is arranged around an interior courtyard with a rectangular pool and fountain, alongside two smaller basins with fountains. Zellij tilework, painted wood and carved stucco add detail to the palace’s interiors.
Its later history reflects the political changes in Fez. After the French occupation of the city in 1911, the palace temporarily housed French plenipotentiary Eugène Regnault and later resident-general Hubert Lyautey.
Walking there from Hotel Batha
Dar Glaoui is about an eight-minute walk from Hotel Batha, a hotel in Fes. It is a nearby medina walk, and you can place the palace within a broader walking day.
Dar Glaoui remains privately owned, so do not assume that the building is open for entry. Confirm current access arrangements before making it the centrepiece of your walk.
Check access before you go
Access to Dar Glaoui can vary, and online listings should not be treated as an official visitor notice. Check the official site before you go, and verify any opening details or entry arrangements directly with the relevant contact.
FAQs
Where is Dar Glaoui in Fes?
It is in the Ziat, or Ziyat, neighbourhood in the southwestern part of Fes el-Bali.
Who built Dar Glaoui?
The palace is attributed to Haj Omar Tazi, who built it in the second half of the 19th century. Madani Glaoui took possession of it in 1907.
What architectural features does Dar Glaoui have?
The largest section centres on a courtyard with a rectangular pool and fountain. The palace also features smaller water basins, zellij tilework, painted wood and carved stucco.
Can you visit Dar Glaoui?
The palace is privately owned, and access arrangements may vary. Confirm current access before you go.