In the early hours of Friday, July 10, 2026, the demolition of the historic Central Market, known as "Marché Central," commenced in downtown Fes on Mohammed V Street. This marks the beginning of one of the largest urban rehabilitation projects the scientific capital has witnessed in recent years, paving the way for its reconstruction based on a modern architectural and commercial vision, with an investment nearing 90 million dirhams.
This initiative aligns with the ongoing urban development dynamics in Fes as the city prepares for upcoming sports and tourism events, notably the 2030 World Cup. The "Marché Central" stands out as a significant project aimed at revitalizing the heart of the city and restoring one of the oldest commercial landmarks that has been part of the memories of its residents for decades.
A Strategic Project Under Regional Leadership
According to available information, the project is overseen by the Wali of the Fes-Meknes region, who is monitoring several structured projects aimed at modernizing infrastructure and enhancing urban spaces. The execution of this initiative has been entrusted to the Fes Region Development Company, which has become the technical arm for implementing major projects within the city.
Prior to the demolition, officials completed the relocation of traders to temporary commercial spaces equipped nearby the market to ensure the continuity of their business activities until the construction is finalized. This approach aims to mitigate the economic and social impacts of the project.
The new project is not solely focused on rebuilding the market in its original form; it envisions a modern urban design that transforms the "Marché Central" into a comprehensive commercial hub that meets contemporary architectural and functional standards. The new complex will include:
- A ground floor dedicated to commercial activities.
- An upper floor.
- Two underground levels designated for parking and logistical facilities.
- 73 commercial outlets.
- 29 spaces for restaurants, cafes, and services.
- Wide walkways and elevators to facilitate access, considering the needs of individuals with disabilities.
- Modern facilities that adhere to energy efficiency and environmental sustainability principles.
- An architectural design that preserves the identity of Fes while integrating modern construction standards.
The project will cover an area exceeding 12,000 square meters across various levels, making the market one of the largest organized commercial spaces in the city center.
Among the significant additions of this project are two underground parking facilities, which are expected to alleviate the parking shortage and congestion that have plagued Mohammed V Street and surrounding areas for years, significantly impacting both traders and visitors.
The project will also reorganize access to the market, providing more fluid spaces that will positively affect commercial activity and enhance the aesthetic appeal of downtown Fes.
A Historic Landmark Regains Its Splendor
For decades, the "Marché Central" has been a prominent symbol of commerce in Fes, serving as an economic and social space that hosted various commercial activities and has been intertwined with the memories of generations of locals. It has also been a crucial stop for visitors to the city. However, the aging infrastructure and deteriorating market facilities in recent years have made its reconstruction a pressing necessity, ensuring safety and quality while preserving the historical value of the site.
This project is a testament to the role that the Fes Region Development Company plays in implementing structured projects in the scientific capital. In recent years, it has been entrusted with several strategic projects focusing on infrastructure, public spaces, markets, and urban rehabilitation, as part of a vision to accelerate project delivery and improve quality.
The reconstruction of the Central Market cannot be separated from the broader initiative taking place in Fes in preparation for the 2030 World Cup, which includes the rehabilitation of major roadways, modernization of public squares and spaces, construction of sports facilities, and enhancement of historical markets, along with projects aimed at improving lighting, landscaping, and urban infrastructure services.
The "Marché Central" project represents a key link in this vision, given its strategic location in the heart of the city, its economic role, historical significance, and the anticipated added value it will bring to the attractiveness of downtown Fes.
With the demolition machinery now in action, a chapter in the architectural and commercial history of the scientific capital has come to a close, paving the way for a new era centered on modernizing the commercial infrastructure of the city center while maintaining the spirit and historical identity of the location. Traders and residents of Fes are hopeful that the project will be completed within the specified timeframe and achieve its stated objectives, both in improving working and shopping conditions and in enhancing the city's economic and tourism appeal, in line with the ongoing developmental dynamics in the Fes-Meknes region and the open projects in preparation for future international events.
As reported by fes24.com.
