Henna Souk (market), Fes

Just off the Al-Attarine Souk, accessed through an arch opposite the Dar Saada restaurant, this charming henna market is one of the medina's most picturesque squares. Its focal point is a massive, gnarled fig tree at the center, surrounded by rows of stalls offering spices, henna, kohls, and aphrodisiacs.

Along the pathway leading to the henna souk, ceramic shops display a diverse array of Fassi pottery, typically adorned in blue-and-white hues. At the square's end, a plaque commemorates the Maristan Sidi Frej, a medical center, psychiatric hospital, and teaching facility that dates back to 1286. Serving as a model for the world's first mental hospital-established in Valencia, Spain, in 1410-the Maristan remained operational until 1944. Notably, it is believed to be the first asylum to incorporate musical therapy as a treatment method.

Plans are underway in the coming years to restore the Maristan to its original purpose, with the creation of a healthcare center, a museum dedicated to traditional medicine, and a market offering medicinal plants. In such a scenario, the henna souk is slated to relocate to a nearby fondouk.