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Meknès

Meknes, Fes-Meknes, Morocco

Journey to the Heart of Imperial Morocco: Meknès Awaits Escape the well-trodden path and discover the captivating charm of Meknès, a city steeped in history and brimming with authentic Moroccan spirit. As one of Morocco…

#Historic city#Imperial capital#Moroccan architecture#Cultural heritage#Medina

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Meknès.

Top Hotels in Meknès

Top Flights to Meknès

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Meknès.

Tours

Explore Bab Mansour

Visit the iconic Bab Mansour gate, an architectural marvel in Meknès.

Sahrij Swani Water Basin

Visit this historical and picturesque water basin used to supply the city with water.

Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail

Explore the resting place of Sultan Moulay Ismail, a significant historical figure.

Explore Bou Inania Madrasa

Visit the Bou Inania Madrasa, a beautiful Koranic school with stunning architecture.

Shopping

Shopping at El Hedim Square

Enjoy traditional Moroccan shopping at the bustling El Hedim Square with local products and souvenirs.

Outdoor

Hiking in the Middle Atlas

Enjoy a scenic hiking experience in the beautiful Middle Atlas mountains around Meknès.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Meknès.

Currency

DH | MAD | Moroccan Dirham

Population

520428.0

Languages

Arabic, French, Berber

Average weather

Meknès

Jan

16°5°

Feb

18°6°

Mar

20°8°

Apr

22°10°

May

26°13°

Jun

31°16°

Jul

36°20°

Aug

36°20°

Sep

31°18°

Oct

26°14°

Nov

20°10°

Dec

16°6°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Meknès.

What people love

Meknès, located in the Fès-Meknès region of Morocco, offers a rich historical and cultural experience for travelers. Here are some pros of traveling to Meknès:

Historical Sites: Meknès is known for its well-preserved historical sites, including the UNESCO-listed historic city of Meknès itself. Visitors can explore the impressive Bab Mansour gate, the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, and the Royal Stables among other historical landmarks.
Less Crowded: Compared to more touristy destinations in Morocco like Marrakech and Fes, Meknès tends to be less crowded, providing a more relaxed and authentic Moroccan experience.
Local Culture: Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture of Meknès by visiting the bustling markets, sampling traditional Moroccan cuisine, and interacting with friendly locals.
Day Trip Opportunities: Meknès is located close to other notable destinations such as Volubilis, an ancient Roman city, and Moulay Idriss, a picturesque hilltop town. These make for great day trip options from Meknès.
Scenic Beauty: The surrounding countryside of Meknès is known for its beautiful landscapes, including rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and nature walks.

Overall, traveling to Meknès offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty without the crowds often found in more popular tourist destinations in Morocco.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Meknès, Morocco could include:

Weather: Meknès experiences hot summers and cold winters, which may not be suitable for everyone's preferences. Travelers who are sensitive to extreme temperatures may find it uncomfortable.
Language barrier: While Arabic is the official language in Morocco, French is also widely spoken in Meknès. Travelers who do not speak either language may find it challenging to communicate with locals.
Cultural differences: Morocco has a different cultural and social environment compared to Western countries. Travelers may experience culture shock or misunderstandings due to unfamiliar customs and traditions.
Safety concerns: Like any other destination, travelers should exercise caution when exploring Meknès. Petty theft and scams targeting tourists can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant and be aware of your surroundings.
Limited tourist infrastructure: While Meknès is a popular tourist destination, it may not have the same level of tourist infrastructure as larger cities like Marrakech or Casablanca. This could result in fewer amenities and services for travelers.

Overall, Meknès is a beautiful city with a rich history and vibrant culture, but travelers should be prepared for some of the challenges that come with visiting a new destination.

Meknès is a city in northern Morocco, and it is one of the four Imperial cities of the country. Its rich history spans several centuries, marked by significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Early History

Meknès was originally founded in the 9th century by a Berber tribe known as the Meknassa, from which the city's name is derived. It began as a simple Kasbah, or fortress, but over time, it grew into a larger settlement.

Almoravid and Almohad Periods

During the 11th century, Meknès became part of the Almoravid dynasty, which saw the expansion of the city and the construction of several mosques. The Almohads, who succeeded the Almoravids, continued to develop Meknès, incorporating it into their larger empire.

The Marinid Dynasty

In the 13th and 14th centuries, under the Marinid dynasty, Meknès gained prominence as a trading center, benefiting from its fertile surroundings and strategic location. The Marinids constructed several madrasas and mosques, contributing to the city's architectural heritage.

The Saadian Period

During the 16th century, Meknès was less prominent as the Saadians focused on Marrakech and other cities. However, the city continued to serve as a regional center.

The Reign of Moulay Ismail

The most significant period in Meknès' history came during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672–1727), the founder of the Alaouite dynasty, which still rules Morocco today. Moulay Ismail chose Meknès as his imperial capital and initiated an ambitious construction program to transform it into a grand city.

Significant Events and Contributions:
- Construction Projects: Moulay Ismail ordered the building of numerous palaces, gardens, mosques, and monumental gates. His most famous construction is the massive Heri es-Souani granaries and stables, designed to accommodate 12,000 horses.
- Fortifications: The city's fortifications were expanded, and large walls and gates like Bab Mansour, one of the most famous gates in North Africa, were constructed.
- Diplomacy and Power: Moulay Ismail was known for his diplomatic relations with European powers and his attempts to consolidate Morocco's territories.

Decline and Recovery

After Moulay Ismail's death, Meknès experienced a period of decline as subsequent rulers focused more on other cities like Fez and Marrakech. However, the city remained an important regional center.

French Protectorate and Modern Era

During the French Protectorate (1912-1956), Meknès saw further development, particularly in the creation of a new town (Ville Nouvelle) alongside the old medina. The French influence is still visible in the city's architecture and urban planning.

Important Landmarks

Bab Mansour: A grand gate known for its intricate zellij tilework and size, it is considered a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture.
Heri es-Souani: These granaries and royal stables are renowned for their size and engineering.
The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: The resting place of the sultan, it is a significant religious site.
Dar Jamai Museum: Housed in a 19th-century palace, this museum showcases Moroccan arts and crafts.

Present Day

Today, Meknès is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical significance and well-preserved architecture. It is a vibrant city with a mix of ancient traditions and modern influences.

Meknès continues to be an important cultural and historical center in Morocco, attracting tourists and scholars interested in its rich past and architectural heritage.