Meknes City is one of the largest cities with a population of about 600,000 people. Meknes is one of the four Imperial cities of Morocco, alongside Rabat, Marrakesh, and Fez, not only due to the fact that it served as the capital of the Alaouite dynasty (present Morocco) but also because of the significance and influence the city has on the history of the country. We shall examine the history, culture, traditions, and all other things you need to know about Meknes in this article.
This is a local delicacy common all over Morocco. It is made from chicken rubbed in spices and grilled over a hot open fire.
There are a lot of places of architectural and historical significance all over Meknes City. Since it is also a religious city, people who love religious structures will also find a lot of large and beautiful mosques that were built back in the 17th century. Some of the wonderful places you can visit in this city are listed below.
This is Meknes’s most important and popular tourist attraction. It is Morocco’s most popular Roman remnant. Although a lot of important items have been transferred from this site to various museums all over Morocco, one can still enjoy the beautiful architectural designs of the buildings in this ancient roman city.
The Meknes Bab-al-Mansour is the biggest of all the gates in Meknes in Morocco. It is this gate that links the Meknes’s medina to the rest of the imperial city. The gate was built in 1732 by Sultan Moulay Ismail. The beautiful architectural design on this gate shows the lavish use of Zellige tilling and carving work that was common at the time the gate was built.
Riad Yacout, located in Meknes' medina, combines traditional Moroccan architecture with modern amenities. It features a courtyard, rooftop terrace, and outdoor pool, offering a peaceful stay with intricately designed rooms and warm hospitality.
Hotel Plaisance, situated in the Hamria district, offers a modern, clean, and quiet experience near the medina. Its well-equipped rooms and attentive staff make it a popular choice for both leisure and business travelers.
Riad Safir, a charming guesthouse in Meknes' historic medina, offers spacious rooms, tastefully decorated interiors, and exceptional hospitality. Its rooftop terrace provides panoramic city views and easy access to nearby attractions.
Hotel Swani is a modern 3-star hotel near the medina, offering comfortable, modern amenities, air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, and helpful staff, making it ideal for travelers with mobility concerns.
Riad Zidania, a tranquil Moroccan retreat near the medina, offers warm hospitality, cozy rooms with local décor, and a tranquil terrace for a culturally immersive experience.
As you travel to Meknes, Morocco; you must know that the ancient structures found all over the city are a great and important part of the history and culture of the city. Therefore, respect these structures and do not be careless around them.
Even though Meknes in Morocco is relatively safe and peaceful, being cautious is the way to go as you move around as a criminal might be lurking around to take advantage of unsuspecting tourists.
Finally, try as much as possible to travel with a travel agency that will help you with your accommodation, and that will also provide you with a travel guide. This will make your journey easier and relatively stress-free.
Where is Meknes, Morocco?
Meknes City is located in northern-central Morocco, about 130 kilometers (80 miles) east of Rabat, the country’s capital. It is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, nestled between the Middle Atlas mountains and the Atlantic coast.
Why is Meknes famous?
Meknes is famous for its rich history as an imperial city, its stunning architecture, and its UNESCO World Heritage-listed medina. It served as the capital of Morocco under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, who left a lasting legacy through impressive landmarks like the Bab Mansour gate, the Royal Palace, and historical monuments.
How long to spend in Meknes?
A stay of 1 to 2 days in Meknes is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the medina, Bab Mansour gate, Moulay Ismail Mausoleum, and the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis nearby. However, if you prefer a more leisurely pace or wish to explore the surrounding areas, you may want to extend your visit.
Which is better, Fes or Meknes?
Both Fes and Meknes offer unique experiences. Fes is renowned for its ancient medina, vibrant souks, and being a center of Islamic learning, while Meknes is known for its more relaxed atmosphere, beautiful imperial history, and close proximity to Roman ruins like Volubilis. If you're looking for a quieter, less touristy experience, Meknes might be a better choice, but Fes offers more historical depth and cultural richness. It ultimately depends on your preferences!
What is the gate in Meknes?
The most famous gate in Meknes is the Bab Mansour, one of the most beautifully decorated gates in Morocco. Built during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 18th century, it is a grand entrance to the medina and is renowned for its intricate design, showcasing a blend of Islamic, Moroccan, and Andalusian architectural styles. It stands as a symbol of the city’s grandeur and historical significance.