Meknès, known for its imperial past, was one of Morocco’s most powerful cities. Today, its medina and the remains of the royal palace are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its imposing fortifications, numerous religious buildings, and monuments with elaborate architecture make it a destination of great interest during your trip to Morocco.
The position
Located about sixty kilometers northwest of Fez and 160 kilometers from Rabat, Meknès occupies a central location that in the past earned it the title of capital of Morocco. The city consists of three distinct districts: the medina with its souks, the imperial city with its palaces and gardens, and the modern city built during the period of the French protectorate, with hotels, banks, services, etc.
The best season to visit Meknès
Considering that summers are arid as in Fez, the thermometer often approaches 35-40 degrees, we recommend visiting Meknès preferably in spring or fall. Temperatures are ideal and the risk of rain is very low.
Winter can be somewhat rainy and temperatures hover around 10-15 degrees during the day.
The history of Meknès
The historic city of Morocco and its ancient capital is respected by Moroccans and tourists alike who marvel at its buildings and palaces. The city is named after a Berber tribe, the Meknasi, who founded it in the 10th century. Growing gradually, it became the country’s capital in the 17th century under the reign of Moulay Ismaïl, who had majestic walls and splendid gates built. After his death, the city lost fame and the title of capital, only to revive with the arrival of the French in the 20th century.
Today, it is one of Morocco’s four imperial cities, with a population of more than 500,000. Still protected by forty kilometers of imposing defensive walls, the city retains numerous monuments classified as national heritage sites, earning it the nickname “the city of a hundred minarets.”
What to see/do in Meknès
Architecture and history lovers will find their fill with the city’s impressive royal buildings and palaces. Here are some activities to enjoy:
- Enjoy a coffee at El-Hedim Square, the Meknès equivalent of Jamaa el Fna Square in Marrakech. Be aware that the square was once the site of public executions and royal announcements.
- Visit the Dar Jamaï Museum. Located in the palace of the same name, you will be able to realize the luxury in which the vizier lived at the time. With traditional costumes, local handicrafts, and specific rooms in the palace (such as the bride’s room or the one reserved for weapons), this is one of the most exciting museums to visit in Morocco to learn more about the local culture!
- Admire the mausoleum of Moulay Ismaïl, the tomb of the sultan who marked the origins of the city and Morocco we know today.
- Go through the different gates of the city. Our favorites are the Bab el-Mansour Gate and the Bab El Khémis Gate, the happy gate.
- Buy a bottle of Moroccan wine: unbelievable but true, it is in this region that the most wine is produced, despite the fact that alcohol is forbidden to Muslims.
- Stroll near the Grand Mosque or Nejjari Mosque. Nicknamed “the city of a hundred minarets,” it would be a shame not to observe some of them during your visit!
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