Meknes is an ancient imperial city located in northern Morocco, about 130 kilometers from Fez. It is one of the country’s four imperial cities, and is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning historical sites. From ancient medinas and mosques to stunning palaces and gardens, Meknes has something to offer visitors of all ages. Here are the top twenty places to visit in Meknes.
1. Bab Mansour: Bab Mansour is one of the most impressive gates in all of Morocco. It is the main entrance to the old city of Meknes, and was built by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. The gate is decorated with intricate tilework and is surrounded by high walls.
2. Heri es-Souani: Heri es-Souani is a stunning complex of granaries, stables, and other buildings that were built by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. The complex was designed to store food for the sultan’s army, and it is now a popular tourist attraction.
3. El Hedim Square: El Hedim Square is the main square in the old city of Meknes. It is a great place to people watch and to soak up the atmosphere of the city. The square is surrounded by colorful buildings and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
4. Dar Jamai Museum: Dar Jamai Museum is a 19th century palace that has been converted into a museum. The museum houses an impressive collection of traditional Moroccan art, including jewelry, carpets, pottery, and more.
5. Place el-Hedim: Place el-Hedim is one of the oldest parts of the city. It is the site of the old city walls, and is now a popular spot for shopping and dining.
6. Grand Mosque of Meknes: The Grand Mosque of Meknes is one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the city. It was built in the 17th century and features stunning tilework and intricate carvings.
7. Borj Nord: Borj Nord is an old fortification that was built by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. The fortification is now a popular tourist attraction, and it offers stunning views of the city.
8. Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail: The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is the burial place of the founder of Meknes, Sultan Moulay Ismail. The mausoleum is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, and it is a popular tourist attraction.
9. Royal Palace of Meknes: The Royal Palace of Meknes is a stunning palace that was built in the 17th century. The palace is now open to the public, and visitors can explore the grand courtyards and gardens.
10. Agdal Basin: The Agdal Basin is a large lake surrounded by lush gardens and palm trees. It is a popular spot for picnicking and relaxing, and it is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
11. Merenid Tombs: The Merenid Tombs are a series of tombs that date back to the 14th century. The tombs are decorated with intricate carvings, and are a popular tourist attraction.
12. Bou Inania Madrasa: The Bou Inania Madrasa is a stunning Islamic school that was built in the 14th century. The school is now open to the public, and visitors can explore the stunning courtyards and gardens.
13. Place el-Hedim Park: Place el-Hedim Park is a popular park located in the center of the city. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the city.
14. Volubilis: Volubilis is an ancient Roman city that is located just outside of Meknes. The city is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in North Africa, and it is a popular tourist attraction.
15. Habs Qara: Habs Qara is an ancient fortress that was built in the 16th century. The fortress is now open to the public, and visitors can explore the stunning courtyards and gardens.
16. Place Lalla Aouda: Place Lalla Aouda is a popular square in the old city of Meknes. The square is surrounded by colorful buildings and is a great place to people watch.
17. Place el-Hedim Souk: Place el-Hedim Souk is a popular market located in the old city of Meknes. The market is a great place to find traditional Moroccan goods, and it is a great place to soak up the atmosphere of the city.
18. Mellah: Mellah is the old Jewish quarter of Meknes. The quarter is home to a number of historic synagogues, and it is a great place to explore the city’s Jewish heritage.
19. Place Lalla Aouda Park: Place Lalla Aouda Park is a popular park located in the old city of Meknes. The park is a great place to relax and enjoy the views of the city.
20. Grand Mosque of Meknes: The Grand Mosque of Meknes is one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the city. It was built in the 17th century and features stunning tilework and intricate carvings.