Meknes: Discover the Rich History of This Ancient City

Meknes, one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and the legacy of Sultan Moulay Ismail, who made the city his capital in the 17th century. With grand palaces, massive city gates, and bustling souks, Meknes offers a glimpse into Morocco’s glorious past while being less crowded and more laid-back than nearby Fes or Marrakech. The city is also a gateway to the Roman ruins of Volubilis, making it a great destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

Visitor Fee (If Applicable)

• Most areas in the medina and city are free to explore, but there may be entry fees for specific attractions:
  • Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: Free, though donations are appreciated.
  • Dar Jamai Museum: 20-30 MAD for adults.
  • Heri es-Souani (Royal Granaries): 10-20 MAD.

Transportation

• By Train: Meknes is easily accessible by train, located about 2-3 hours from both Rabat and Fes. Regular trains run between major cities, making it a convenient stop.
• By Car: About 4-5 hours from Marrakech, Meknes is also accessible by car. It’s a 1-hour drive from Fes, making it easy to combine both cities in a single trip.
• Local Transport: Grand taxis, buses, and petit taxis are available within the city for getting around between historical sites.

Things to Do

• Bab Mansour Gate: The most famous monument in Meknes, Bab Mansour is an enormous, beautifully decorated gate that once served as the main entrance to the imperial city. Built in the early 18th century, the gate is an iconic symbol of Meknes.
• Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: This beautiful mausoleum is the resting place of Sultan Moulay Ismail, the ruler who built Meknes into an imperial capital. Non-Muslim visitors can enter the outer parts of the mausoleum and appreciate the stunning architecture and peaceful courtyards.
• Heri es-Souani (Royal Granaries): This vast structure once housed the city’s grain stores and stables. Its immense size and vaulted ceilings are a testament to the engineering prowess of Moulay Ismail’s time.
• Dar Jamai Museum: Housed in a 19th-century palace, the Dar Jamai Museum showcases traditional Moroccan arts and crafts, including ceramics, jewelry, and textiles.
• El Hedim Square: This large, open square at the heart of the medina is reminiscent of Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa. It’s a lively spot with street performers, food vendors, and cafes, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the local atmosphere.
• Meknes Medina: Explore the narrow streets of the medina, where you’ll find traditional souks selling everything from spices and textiles to handcrafted leather goods. The medina is quieter and more intimate than those in Marrakech or Fes, offering a more relaxed shopping experience.

Why People Enjoy Visiting Meknes

People are drawn to Meknes for its historical charm, imperial grandeur, and calm ambiance. Unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Marrakech or Fes, Meknes provides a more laid-back experience where visitors can enjoy Morocco’s rich history and culture without the crowds. Its impressive monuments, palaces, and gates reflect the city’s former glory as a royal capital. Meknes also offers easy access to the nearby Roman ruins of Volubilis, making it an ideal base for exploring Morocco’s ancient history.

How Old is Meknes?

Meknes dates back to the 11th century, when it was founded as a military settlement by the Almoravid dynasty. However, it reached its height of glory in the 17th century under Sultan Moulay Ismail, who transformed it into an imperial city with grand palaces, mosques, and city walls.

List of Activities

• Visit Bab Mansour: Admire the stunning design of this enormous gate, one of the largest and most famous in Morocco.
• Explore the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: Learn about the sultan’s legacy and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this architectural gem.
• Wander the Medina: Stroll through the quieter streets of Meknes’ medina and browse the local souks.
• See Heri es-Souani: Discover the vast royal granaries and stables that once supported Moulay Ismail’s grand ambitions.
• Relax in El Hedim Square: Watch street performers, enjoy traditional snacks, or shop in the nearby souks.
• Dar Jamai Museum: View exhibits of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship and enjoy the beauty of the 19th-century palace.
• Day Trip to Volubilis: Explore the ancient Roman ruins just outside Meknes, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in North Africa.
• Visit the Royal Golf Course: Meknes has a beautiful golf course located next to the royal palace, offering a scenic and historic setting for a round of golf.

Additional Nearby Attractions

• Volubilis: Just 30 km (30-40 minute drive) from Meknes, Volubilis is an ancient Roman city known for its well-preserved mosaics, grand columns, and historical significance. It’s one of Morocco’s most important archaeological sites.
• Moulay Idriss Zerhoun: A short drive from Volubilis, this holy town is named after Moulay Idriss I, the founder of Morocco’s first dynasty. The town is a pilgrimage site and offers great views of the surrounding countryside.
• Fes: About an hour away, Fes is one of Morocco’s most famous cities, known for its vast medina, ancient tanneries, and vibrant culture.
• Ifrane: Often called "Little Switzerland" for its alpine-style architecture and cooler climate, Ifrane is about an hour’s drive from Meknes and offers a refreshing retreat in the Middle Atlas Mountains.

Meknes is a treasure trove of history and culture, offering a quieter alternative to Morocco’s larger cities while still showcasing the grandeur of its imperial past. Its stunning architecture, laid-back atmosphere, and proximity to other historical sites make it an appealing destination for travelers seeking a rich Moroccan experience.