Taza was founded by the Berbers in the fifth century and was once a fortress that guarded the route leading to fertile lands in the west. In the old town, situated above the modern, there are cereal markets, souks for mats, jewellery and carpets, as well as the remains of the old kasbah. Within Taza's Great Mosque is one of Morocco's most beautiful bronze chandeliers, which bears 514 oil lamps.
Just out of town are the Frouato Caverns, a heaven for spelunkers. These caverns reach down to a depth of 180 m with stalactites and stalagmites covering a fairyland of mineral sculpture. Taza is also the best base for adventures into Tazzeka National Park and its vast forests of cork oaks and cedars. The climb to the summit of Djebel Tazzeka (1980 m) is well rewarded by stunning views across this wooded countryside and out to the snow-bound peaks of the Middle Atlas.