History of the Riad

Our Vizier’s Palace was designated a historic monument by UNESCO in 1982.

19th century Palace with unusual architectural style, where Arabic-Moorish features mix up with an Art Deco villa, Mayfez embraces the characteristics of the city: a mixture of cosmopolitan historical grandeur and gentle lifestyle.

Bought in 2006, the Riad, has undergone 10 years of refurbishment; 5 years of heavy work, 5 years of embelishment and design , to become Riad Mayfez Suites & Spa.

AN ILLUSTRIOUS FAMILY

Before becoming Riad Mayfez Suites & Spa, the riad served as the residence of an illustrious Moroccan family that contributed significantly to Fez’ history, notably producing the renowned Pacha Tazi, as well as numerous governors and viziers over several generations, both before and during the French protectorate.

Riad Mayfez, formerly known as “The Farm”, remained the property of Lalla Tam Tazi until her passing. She chose not to follow her husband, Haj M’hamed Tazi, mendoub (Vizier) of Tangier, to that city. The latter’s brother, Haj Omar Tazi, held the esteemed position of Grand Vizier to the Sultan in Rabat.

This family’s history intertwines immense wealth, influence, commercial monopolies, and the involvement of some younger descendants in the Rif independence war—a situation where the elders’ power helped avert severe consequences.

Ahmed, the second son of Vizier Haj M’hamed, eventually aligned with his father in the 20’s, becoming his right-hand man and succeeding him as Vizier of Tangier upon his father’s death. He is credited with constructing the magnificent palace that, since 2022, houses the Fairmont Hotel in Tangier.

DEATH & REBIRTH OF A PALTIAL HOME

The prominent families of Fez were often large, and internal tensions were not uncommon.

Consequently, “The Farm” was abandoned after Lalla Tam’s death, leading to inheritance disputes that resulted in the riad passing to the Laraqui Houssaïni family, another distinguished lineage in Fez. Neglected during the latter half of the 20th century, the property suffered considerable damage.

In 2007, Moulay and Dominique Laraqui Houssaïni acquired the riad from one of their family heirs, embarking on a restoration journey to revive its former glory.

First a secondary home, the Riad has undergone continuous make over in recent years in terms of decoration and bespoke service, that allow it to claim a place of choice on the Luxury market in Fez, promoting its values: Creativity, Exclusivity and Lifestyle.