Meknes City is an imperial city in Morocco. Meknes originates from the Berber tribe Miknasa who settled here during the 8th century. It was not until the 17th century when the Alaouite dynasty, Moulay Ismail, made it his capital city. Besides, he made it an impressive city with a Moorish style. It includes vast gardens, monuments, and mosques. It also includes around 40 kilometres of thick and huge walls and gates around the city. Moreover, Moulay Ismail reigned for 55 years which is considered the longest of any Moroccan Sultan. Because of the 17th-century monuments, the city becomes one of the tourist destinations. Therefore, tourist attractions in Meknes are popular monuments to explore.
The main tourist attractions in Meknes:
Meknes Medina
It is impossible to miss walking through the traffic-free narrow streets of the old Medina. It offers the gates, mosques and buildings of the 17th century. Moreover, you will enjoy the ancient ambience. And everything from spices, clothes and monuments that reflect Islamic architecture. let yourself go back to the 17th century in this maze of the old Medina. It is one of the tourist attractions in Meknes that you should not miss.
El- Hedim Square
The main square time in Meknes. Thus, it is a popular meeting square and the centre of entertainment. It comes alive during the sunset. The storytellers, animal trainers and other street performers create an exotic atmosphere. Besides, the square is surrounded by shops, cafes and restaurants. Further, it is also famous for its huge gate, Bab Al-Mansour.
Bab Al-Mansour
Bab Al-Mansour is one of the main tourist attractions in Meknes. It was built in the 17th century. The gate’s name originates from the designer and architect, Victorious Apostate translated as Mansour Al-Alj. He is a former Christian slave who converted to Islam. It is a huge door that offers Andalusian architecture and great history behind it.
Royal Stables
Moulay Ismail built these stables to offer the best accommodations for his beloved hours. Hence, the sultan had almost 12,000 horses and each horse had its groom and slave to offer all its needs. Further, Moulay Ismail had a great impression on the horses. He was dealing with them more than he was with human beings. He offered them a luxurious life with an ideal temperature and pure water. However, the 18th-century earthquake destroyed most of the construction. It is one of the most interesting tourist attractions in Meknes to visit.
Bou Inania Madrasa
There is another Madrasa in Fes with the same name. Yet, this one in Meknes remains the best example of Marinid architecture. It is also an Islamic school designed with classic mosaic tile, geometric stucco and carved cedar wood ceiling. In addition, non-Muslim tourists can enter. Thus, you will explore students’ rooms and Madrasa’s hammam. And you will admire the rooftop opposite the Grand Mosque minaret. If you are a photographer who enjoys these old designs, you check other sites in Morocco photography tours.
Qara Prison
It is a mysterious prison under the ground without doors. This historical monument dates back to the 18th century. The Portuguese prisoner designed this prison in exchange for his freedom by Sultan Moulay Ismail. Therefore, the Sultan used this place to punish the opponents of his rule and the criminals. Locals believe that many people have entered it and never come back. But, there are only some rooms that are open to the public. So, make it one of your tourist attractions in Meknes, too.
Volubilis
It is one of the top tourist attractions in Meknes. Therefore, the UNESCO archaeological site represents the old Roman ruins. Also, the surviving fragments and columns have a great history behind them. Besides, the olive plantation around the site has been an economic source since the Roman era. Explore olive presses and enjoy the atmospheric view of the ancient Romans. Most tours in Morocco include a visit to this site, such as 7 days tour from Tangier to Marrakech
How to reach Meknes City?
By private tour: we offer different Morocco travel tours that lead to most Moroccan cities, including the imperial cities. You can check Morocco desert tours that start from Tangier, Casablanca, Fes, Marrakech and Agadir. But, it is possible to customise your trip according to your needs. Our Morocco tours include enough services during the trip, such as accommodations, pick-up and drop-off services, and stops for views and attractions…
By Air: Fes is a city that is 50 kilometres away from Meknes. So, you can land in Fez-Saïss International Airport. Then, You can book a special transfer to Meknes from the airport or hire a taxi. You can contact us to offer you a transfer from Fes to Meknes.
By train: Meknes is connected to Moroccan cities via the country’s efficient rail system. If you are already in Morocco, you can use a train from places such as Casablanca or Rabat. The road to Meknes offers breathtaking views of the countryside and the trains provide excellent service to Meknes.
By Bus: another convenient and inexpensive option is to use local buses. The road to Meknes is run by many bus companies from many cities like Casablanca, Rabat, and Fes. The bus network is extensive and offers a chance to see Morocco’s landscapes despite its long duration of travel.
By Car: Renting a car is an option for those who enjoy the independence of driving. Meknes is connected to other Moroccan cities by important highways. However, Remember to familiarize yourself with Moroccan driving regulations.
Where to sleep in Meknes?
Meknes presents a variety of charming accommodations that offer a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Most of the tourist accommodations are in the old Medina and near Meknes attractions. Whether you prefer the private space of a boutique guesthouse, the cultural Riad with courtyards or a luxury hotel are available. So, here is a list of Meknes tourist accommodations on Booking.com.
- Things to See in Casablanca
In this list of things to see in Casablanca, you will be able to plan your visit to Casablanca. Our Morocco travel … Read more - Airports in Morocco
Morocco is one of the rich cultural heritage destinations. It has developed into a popular tourist destination thanks to its scenery, history, … Read more - Kasbah Ait Ben HaddouAit Ben Haddou Kasbah or Ksar of Ait Ben Haddou is a traditional and fortified village on the slopes of the High … Read more
Leave a Reply