Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts

Description

Alright, buckle up, folks! We’re about to dive into the world of woodcraft at the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts. This place is a real gem, tucked away in the heart of Fez’s bustling medina. Now, I’ve seen my fair share of museums, but this one’s got a certain je ne sais quoi that sets it apart.

Picture this: a former inn, transformed into a three-story haven for wood lovers. As soon as you step inside, you’re hit with the rich aroma of cedar and sandalwood. It’s like walking into a carpenter’s dream workshop, but way fancier.

The star of the show here is, without a doubt, the intricate wood carvings. We’re talking about pieces so detailed, you’ll wonder if elves moonlight as artisans in Morocco. From delicate floral patterns to geometric designs that’ll make your head spin, the craftsmanship on display is nothing short of jaw-dropping.

But it’s not just about the carvings. Oh no, this place is a treasure trove of wooden wonders. You’ll find everything from ornate furniture that looks like it belongs in a palace to everyday objects that showcase the versatility of wood. There’s something oddly fascinating about seeing a wooden spoon elevated to the status of art.

Now, I gotta be honest – some parts of the museum might feel a bit… let’s say, dusty. It’s not exactly the Louvre in terms of modern museum amenities. But that’s part of its charm, if you ask me. It’s like stepping back in time, getting a glimpse of Morocco’s rich artistic heritage.

One thing that really stuck with me was the [collection of worn wooden boards used by Quranic recitation students](https://www.lonelyplanet.com/morocco/fez/medina/attractions/nejjarine-museum-of-wooden-arts-crafts/a/poi-sig/1143427/1342767). These boards, patched up with copper and adorned with graduation certificates, tell a story of dedication and tradition that’s pretty darn cool.

And just when you think you’ve seen it all, the museum throws you a curveball with its rooftop cafe. Trust me, after all that wood-gazing, you’ll be ready for a mint tea break with a view. It’s the perfect spot to catch your breath and soak in the panorama of Fez’s old city.

Is it the most high-tech, interactive museum experience you’ll ever have? Nah. But if you’re into craftsmanship, history, or just appreciate the finer things in life, the Nejjarine Museum is definitely worth a visit. It’s a quirky, sometimes creaky, always fascinating journey through Morocco’s wooden wonderland.

Key Features

• Three floors packed with wooden artifacts and art pieces
• Stunning examples of intricate Moroccan wood carving
• Diverse collection ranging from furniture to musical instruments
• Historical Quranic student boards with unique stories
• Architectural marvel – the building itself is a restored funduq (inn)
• Rooftop cafe offering panoramic views of Fez medina
• Displays showcasing traditional woodworking tools and techniques
• Exhibits on the cultural significance of wood in Moroccan life
• [Variety of wooden crafts and artwork](https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g293733-d481049-Reviews-Museo_Nejjarine-Fez_Fez_Meknes.html), including some you can purchase
• Cool, quiet atmosphere providing a respite from the bustling medina

Best Time to Visit

Alright, let’s talk timing for your Nejjarine Museum adventure. Now, I’m not gonna sugar-coat it – Fez can get hotter than a jalapeno in July. So, if you’re not a fan of sweating through your shirt while admiring wood carvings (and let’s face it, who is?), you might wanna avoid the peak summer months.

In my humble opinion, the sweet spot for visiting is during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). The weather’s more pleasant – think warm but not sweltering – and you won’t be fighting through crowds of tourists. Plus, the light during these seasons is just *chef’s kiss* for those Instagram-worthy shots of intricate wood designs.

If you’re a bit of a weather wimp like me, winter (December to February) can actually be a decent time to visit. It’s cooler, which makes wandering around a three-story building full of wood a lot more comfortable. Just pack a light jacket for those chilly mornings.

Now, here’s a pro tip: try to time your visit for earlier in the day. The museum tends to be quieter in the morning, giving you space to really soak in all that wooden goodness without bumping elbows with other tourists. Plus, the light filtering through the windows in the morning adds a certain magic to the place.

Avoid visiting on Fridays if possible. It’s the main day of prayer in Muslim countries, and some areas of the medina can get pretty crowded. Not ideal if you’re trying to navigate your way to the museum.

Oh, and if you’re in Fez during Ramadan, keep in mind that opening hours might be a bit different. It’s always a good idea to double-check before you go. Trust me, you don’t wanna be the guy standing outside a closed museum in the midday heat. Been there, done that, got the sunburn to prove it.

How to Get There

Alright, adventurers, let’s talk about how to actually find this wooden wonderland in the labyrinth that is Fez’s medina. First things first: if you’re expecting Google Maps to save your bacon, think again. The medina is like a smartphone’s worst nightmare – narrow alleys, twisting streets, and more dead ends than a bad horror movie.

Your best bet? Embrace the old school way – ask for directions. I know, I know, it’s scary talking to strangers, but Moroccans are generally pretty friendly and more than happy to point lost tourists in the right direction. Just be prepared for a lot of hand waving and maybe a impromptu Arabic lesson.

If you’re staying in a riad in the medina, ask your host for directions. They usually know the quickest routes and might even walk you part of the way. It’s like having a personal GPS, but with more personality and probably a few local stories thrown in for free.

For those of you brave souls staying outside the medina, you’ll want to head to the Bab Bou Jeloud gate (also known as the Blue Gate – it’s hard to miss, trust me). From there, it’s a bit of a treasure hunt. You’re looking for the Nejjarine Square. It’s about a 10-15 minute walk, depending on how many times you get distracted by shiny things in the souks (no judgment here, it happens to the best of us).

Now, here’s where it gets tricky. The museum isn’t exactly shouting its presence from the rooftops. Keep your eyes peeled for a beautiful wooden door – that’s your ticket to wood paradise. If you hit the tanneries, you’ve gone too far (and your nose will definitely let you know).

If all else fails, hire a guide. Yes, it’ll cost you a few dirhams, but it’s worth it to avoid spending your vacation playing hide and seek with a museum. Plus, a good guide will throw in some local history and maybe even show you a few hidden gems along the way.

One last piece of advice: wear comfortable shoes. The medina’s streets are ancient, uneven, and sometimes slippery. This is not the place for your fancy new loafers or those cute but impractical sandals. Think practical, think comfy, think “I’m about to walk through a medieval maze.”

Remember, getting a bit lost in the medina is part of the Fez experience. Embrace it, enjoy it, and who knows? You might stumble upon something even cooler than the museum on your way there. (But still, try to find the museum. It’s pretty awesome.)

Tips for Visiting

Alright, future wood enthusiasts, let’s get down to brass tacks (or should I say, wooden pegs?) about making the most of your visit to the Nejjarine Museum. First up, let’s talk money. Make sure you’ve got cash on hand – and I mean local currency, not your leftover euros from that trip to Paris. Most places in the medina, including our wooden wonderland, aren’t big fans of plastic.

Now, about the entrance fee. It’s a bit steeper than your average Moroccan museum, but trust me, it’s worth every dirham. Plus, it includes a drink at the rooftop cafe. Pro tip: save your ticket and head up to the cafe after your tour. Nothing beats sipping on a mint tea while overlooking the medina and mentally replaying all the cool stuff you’ve just seen.

Speaking of the tour, don’t rush it. This isn’t a race, folks. Take your time, especially on those stairs – they’re steep and worn, just like the history they represent. And please, for the love of all things wooden, don’t try to touch everything. I know it’s tempting (believe me, I’ve been there), but these artifacts are old and delicate. Look with your eyes, not with your hands.

Camera enthusiasts, rejoice! Photography is allowed inside the museum. But here’s the catch – flash photography is a big no-no. It can damage the delicate wood and artifacts. Plus, it makes you look like a tourist. Oh wait, we are tourists. Well, at least try to be a cool, respectful one.

If you’re a bit of a history buff or just really into wood (hey, no judgment here), consider hiring a guide at the entrance. They can provide fascinating insights that you might miss on your own. Just make sure to agree on a price beforehand to avoid any awkward haggling at the end.

Here’s something I wish someone had told me before my visit: the lighting inside can be a bit dim in some areas. If you’ve got less than perfect eyesight like yours truly, bringing a small flashlight or using your phone’s torch can help you appreciate the finer details of the woodwork.

Oh, and let’s talk about timing. The museum isn’t huge, but if you’re really into the exhibits, you could easily spend a couple of hours here. Plan accordingly, especially if you’re fitting this into a day packed with medina exploration.

Last but not least, don’t forget to check out the gift shop. I know, I know, gift shops are usually tourist traps, but this one actually has some pretty cool wooden crafts. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir that isn’t a fridge magnet or a poorly made t-shirt.

Remember, the Nejjarine Museum is more than just a building full of old wood. It’s a window into Morocco’s rich artistic heritage. So take a deep breath, ignore the notifications on your phone for a while, and immerse yourself in this wooden time capsule. Who knows? You might just come out with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship of yesteryear. And if not, well, at least you got a nice view from the rooftop cafe!

Location

Places to Stay Near Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts

Find and Book a Tour

Explore More Travel Guides