Places
Things to do:
Meknes
01
Historical Medina: The old town of Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with historical monuments, traditional souks, and grand gates like the Bab Mansour. The medina gives visitors a glimpse into Morocco’s rich past, with a blend of Islamic, Arab, and Berber architecture.
02
Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: This is the final resting place of Sultan Moulay Ismail, who made Meknes his capital. The mausoleum is an architectural masterpiece, known for its intricate tile work and peaceful surroundings, offering insight into the legacy of the sultan.
03
Bab Mansour Gate: Considered one of the most impressive gates in Morocco, Bab Mansour is an iconic symbol of Meknes. It features intricate Islamic tilework, grand archways, and is located at the entrance to the medina, where visitors are welcomed by its imposing presence.
04
Royal Stables: The Royal Stables of Moulay Ismail are an example of the sultan's ambition to create a powerful and efficient military. The stables once housed thousands of horses and are an impressive historical site with expansive architecture.
05
Heritage of Traditional Crafts: Meknes is known for its traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, including pottery, leatherwork, and textiles. Visitors can find beautifully made products in the local souks and markets, such as colorful ceramics and intricate carpets.
06
Volubilis Ruins: Just outside Meknes, the ancient Roman city of Volubilis is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in Morocco. Its mosaics, columns, and remnants of Roman architecture offer a fascinating insight into the country’s ancient history and past civilizations.
Accommodations to consider
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Château Roslane Boutique Hôtel & Spa
244 €
Meknes
Meknes is often called the “Versailles of Morocco” due to its grand architectural beauty and the extravagant vision of Sultan Moulay Ismail, who ruled from 1672 to 1727. Just as Louis XIV transformed Versailles into a symbol of French power and luxury, Moulay Ismail aimed to create a city that reflected Morocco’s strength and royal opulence. Under his reign, Meknes became a magnificent imperial capital, filled with vast palaces, elaborate gardens, and monumental gates. The grand scale and lavishness of these structures, including the famous Bab Mansour gate, rivaled those of European palaces, earning Meknes its “Versailles” moniker.
