Dar Mnebhi (Mnebhi Palace), Fes

This early 20th-century palace, situated in the heart of the old medina of Fes, holds historical significance as the site where the 1912 Treaty of Fes was ratified, marking the establishment of French colonial rule over Morocco. Positioned on Tala'a Seghira street, one of the main souq streets of the city, it was commissioned by Mehdi Mnebhi, the defense minister of Sultan Abdelaziz, between 1900 and 1908. Mnebhi also oversaw the construction of another palace, now housing the Marrakech Museum.

Following its completion, the palace served as the initial residence of the French resident-general, Lyautey, and later became the headquarters of the Istiqlal (Independence) party in Morocco. Today, it has been repurposed as a restaurant venue where visitors can indulge in mint tea while enjoying panoramic views from the rooftop.

The palace's architectural grandeur is evident upon entering the vast reception hall, with its lofty wooden dome ceiling supported by four majestic columns, alongside a striking wall fountain adorned with intricate ‘zellij’ mosaic tiles. Flanking the reception hall are two additional rooms with equally elaborate decorations.