Overview

Meknes, one of Morocco's imperial cities, offers visitors a harmonious blend of historical grandeur and local charm. Known for its impressive architecture, massive city gates, and tranquil atmosphere, Meknes was transformed into a fortified city by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the late 17th century. Unlike the bustling medinas of Marrakech and Fez, Meknes has a more relaxed pace, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking to explore Morocco's rich cultural heritage without the crowds. With its walled medina, royal complexes, and proximity to the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis, Meknes is a must-see for history enthusiasts as well as for those wanting to experience Morocco's imperial past.

History and Culture

Meknes has a deep historical legacy, having been founded as a military settlement by the Almoravids in the 11th century. Its rise to prominence came under Sultan Moulay Ismail in the late 17th century, who sought to establish it as his capital and transform it into a grand imperial city. Moulay Ismail's vision can still be seen today in Meknes's towering gates, intricate palaces, and vast granaries, all of which bear the mark of his ambition and the city's rich architectural heritage. The city's artisans continue to practice traditional crafts such as wood carving, metalwork, and tile-making, ensuring that its cultural legacy lives on in every corner of the old medina.

Weather

Meknes enjoys a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild, wet winters. Temperatures in summer often reach the mid-90s Fahrenheit, making spring and autumn the best seasons for visiting. In these milder seasons, you can comfortably explore the city's open-air markets, historic sites, and surrounding countryside. Months like April and May offer high temperatures on the cooler side of the 70s, while September and October typically see mid-and-upper 70s. Winter days are usually sunny, with temperatures in the 50s to 60s, though rainfall is more common during these months.

Must-See Sights in Meknes

We recommend grouping sights by proximity so you can see as much as you can while visiting Meknes. Here are our recommendations, starting in Lahdim Square:

Lahdim Square and the Medina area

Start your visit at Lahdim Square, the central plaza where locals and tourists alike gather. Around the square, you'll find the Dar Jamai Museum, which houses traditional Moroccan arts and crafts. Nearby is the Marché Couvert, or covered market, where you can sample local foods and buy souvenirs. A short walk east along Rue Dar Smen leads to the Meknes Museum, offering fascinating insights into the city's imperial past. Also nearby are the Great Mosque of Meknes and the Bou Inania Madrasa, both within easy walking distance of each other. While non-Muslims cannot enter the mosque, the madrasa is open to all and showcases stunning Marinid architecture.

Imperial City complex

Just a short distance from Lahdim Square, you'll encounter some of Meknes' most iconic sites. Start with the Bab Mansour, one of the most impressive and well-preserved city gates in Morocco, renowned for its intricate zellige tilework and grand size. After taking in the gate, cross the roundabout to explore the haunting Kara Prison, where Sultan Moulay Ismail is said to have held up to 40,000 prisoners in its subterranean cells. Further along, you'll reach the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, where the sultan himself is entombed, though it is currently closed for renovations (this project began in 2016, with no end in sight). Even from the outside, this site is an important part of Meknes' imperial history and is worth a gander.

Royal Stables and Granary complex

Continuing along Avenue Bab Marrah, you'll arrive at the Royal Stables and Imperial Granary, two of the most significant structures from Sultan Moulay Ismail's era. The granaries were designed to store grain to feed both the people of Meknes and the Sultan's massive stable of over 12,000 horses. Adjacent to the stables, you'll find the Agdal Basin, a vast reservoir built to supply water to the royal gardens and granaries. Today, it's a serene spot for visitors to relax or take a boat ride.

Jewish Quarter (Mellah) and beyond

From the Royal Stables, head toward the Mellah, Meknes's Jewish Quarter. First, explore the Nouveau Mellah, the newer Jewish district, where you can visit the Talmud Torah, an important religious and educational institution. Cross over to the Ancien Mellah, the older Jewish Quarter, where you'll find the historic Jewish Cemetery, a testament to the centuries-long Jewish presence in Meknes.

Volubilis

For a rewarding day trip, visit Volubilis, an ancient Roman city located 20 miles north of Meknes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most well-preserved Roman archaeological sites in North Africa and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's Roman past, with impressive mosaics, temples, and public buildings.

Activities

Exploring Meknes on foot allows you to truly experience its historic charm. Walking through the medina's narrow streets, you'll find artisans crafting traditional goods, markets brimming with spices and textiles, and quiet corners where you can enjoy mint tea. For those interested in panoramic views of the city, a stroll along the ancient city walls provides stunning vistas of the surrounding plains and the distant Middle Atlas Mountains.

For a more tranquil experience, visit the Sahrij Swani Basin (also called the Basin of the Norias), a large water reservoir built by Moulay Ismail. It's an ideal place for a peaceful afternoon by the water, with the chance to take a boat ride or simply enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Nightlife

Meknes is not known for its nightlife, but its evenings offer a more relaxed experience compared to larger cities. Many riads and hotels host rooftop dinners and traditional music performances, particularly showcasing styles from the Gnawa people and also those descended from Andalucia. Visitors can enjoy these cultural performances along with a Moroccan meal under the stars. For a quiet evening, the cafés around Lahdim Square offer a cozy setting to unwind and enjoy a drink.

Food & Drink

Meknes is celebrated for its rich culinary traditions, blending Arab, Berber, and Andalusian influences. One of the standout dishes is meknassi couscous, often served with tender lamb, vegetables, and a flavorful broth. For a taste of local street food, be sure to try harira, a traditional Moroccan soup, and sellou, a sweet made from almonds, sesame seeds, and honey.

The city's proximity to fertile agricultural regions also makes it a hub for wine production in Morocco. Visitors can sample some of the country's best wines at local restaurants and cafés, pairing them with classic Moroccan dishes such as tagines and freshly baked bread from the medina's street vendors.