10 things to do in Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail Meknes Morocco
Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail in Meknes, Morocco is one of the most important historical sites in the country and a must-see for any traveler. Built in the 17th century by the Sultan Moulay Ismail, the mausoleum is an impressive example of Islamic architecture and a testament to the power of the former Moroccan Empire. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail in Meknes.
1. Explore the Splendid Architecture: The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is a stunning example of Islamic architecture, with a grand facade and a large courtyard surrounded by high walls. The mausoleum is constructed from cedar wood, marble, and stucco, and is decorated with intricate geometric patterns.
2. Visit the Tomb of Moulay Ismail: The tomb of Moulay Ismail is located in the center of the mausoleum. The tomb is made of marble and is decorated with carved verses from the Quran. Visitors are not allowed to enter the tomb, but they can admire its beauty from outside.
3. Take a Tour of the Palace: The mausoleum is part of a larger complex that includes the ruins of the former palace of Moulay Ismail. The palace was once home to the sultan and his court, and visitors can explore its ruins and learn more about its history.
4. Admire the Mosaics: The walls of the mausoleum are decorated with stunning mosaics that depict scenes from the Quran and the life of Moulay Ismail. The mosaics are made from colored glass and are a beautiful sight to behold.
5. Visit the Mosque: The mausoleum is also home to a mosque, which was built in the 17th century and is still used today for prayer. It is a beautiful example of Moroccan architecture and a great place to visit.
6. Explore the Gardens: The mausoleum is surrounded by lush gardens, which are a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The gardens are filled with exotic plants and flowers, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll through them.
7. Visit the Souks: The mausoleum is located in the heart of Meknes, and visitors can explore the nearby souks to find unique souvenirs and gifts. The souks are also a great place to sample traditional Moroccan cuisine.
8. Take a Camel Ride: A visit to Meknes wouldn't be complete without a camel ride! Visitors can take a ride on a camel through the city and explore the sights and sounds of the city from a unique perspective.
9. Visit the Medina: The medina of Meknes is a great place to explore the city's traditional architecture and culture. The medina is filled with narrow streets, traditional shops, and historic monuments.
10. Enjoy the Views: The mausoleum is located on a hill, and visitors can enjoy spectacular views of the city from the top. The views are especially stunning at sunset, when the city is illuminated by the setting sun.
Visiting the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail in Meknes is a great way to explore the history and culture of Morocco. From admiring the stunning architecture to exploring the city's souks and medina, there are plenty of things to do and see. So make sure to add the mausoleum to your itinerary when visiting Meknes!