Imperial City and Seventeenth Century Capital. Meknes, one of the most prestigious of the so-called imperial cities, enjoys a central position vis-à-vis other regions in Morocco. Situated west of the Saiss plain between the pre-Riffian elevation of Zerhoun and the foothills of the Middle-atlas, Meknes sits on a plateau and served as a virtual cross roads for traders and settlers throughout history; This role was to its clement weather, abundant water supplies, and surrounding fertile plains.
A minute of History:
Arab historians trace the origins of Meknes to the Roman period in Morocco, perhaps as a forward post for the neighboring Roman city of Volubilis in its search for timber and volcanic rock required for construction, and which the Atlas mountains must have provided in plenty. Recent archeological findings, however, do not offer convincing proof That there was a virtual Romanization of a settlement that would later develop into the great capital of legendary King Moulay Ismail.
General Information:
An historic city whose splendour attracted architects, engineers and artists, Meknes and its surroundings have remained unchanged for centuries. At sunset the Imperial city glows as the ramparts reflect the fading light. You can relax in the col of its lush gardens. Or you can lose yourself in history at Moulya Idriss, by the tomb of the founder of the first Arab dynasty and among the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Volubilis.
Visitors return from Meknes as if awakening from a dream-one might have been making use of the famous Time Machine. But one will never forget the skill of its goldsmiths, the dexterity of its merchants, the workmanship of its woodsculptors and the friendly hubbub of its souks.
Local Market:
The Souk of Meknès: A large variety of colorful handicrafts are displayed. Below: The artistic displays of fresh produce found at the Souk in Meknès make these Moroccan Olives especially enticing.
Places to visit:
Bab Mansour El Alj: One of the best known and admired of Meknes' grand gates. the Gate leads from the Imperial City and Lalla Aouda esplanade to El-Hdim Square.
The great monuments, the massive walls, the huge gates, the elaborate gardens, the integrated neighborhoods, the bustling markets, and the unique crafts and arts point to layers of history compacted and superimposed in every corner of the city. So much history for the visitor to unravel and marvel; at that Meknes was classified in 1996 as a World Heritage Site, surely for the edification and pleasure of all humanity.
Famous Monuments:
As well as its fabulous monuments, such as Dar El Makhzen palace, the Sidi Saïd mosque, Bab El Berdaine, Bab El Khémis, Bab El Mansour, Bab Jemaâ En Nouar, the Moulay Ismaïl Mausoleum and the Kouba El Khayatine, Meknes offers impressive views of the Agdal basin.
Not far from Meknes, the Roman city of Volubilis is an unforgettable treat for the tourist. The city is surrounded by 2,5 kilomètres of ramparts, entered by six gates.
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