Meknes

Meknes: The Forgotten Imperial City (Where Morocco’s Kings Used to Rule—And Where Tourists Rarely Go)

Most travelers skip Meknes.

Big mistake.

Meknes WAS Morocco’s capital under King Moulay Ismail (17th century).
It HAS walls that rival Fes’s medina (and fewer tourists).
It HAS incredible gates and palaces (less crowded than Marrakech).
It’s RIGHT NEXT TO Volubilis (Roman ruins, UNESCO site).

Yet most travelers never visit.

That means you’ll experience a royal city with none of the overwhelming tourism.

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MEKNES HISTORY!

The Golden Era:
– King Moulay Ismail ruled 55 years (1672-1727)
– Made Meknes capital (left Fes behind)
– Built massive walls, gates, palaces
– Controlled North Africa militarily
– Was formidable power in region

Why It Declined:
– King’s successor moved capital to Rabat (political shift)
– Lost status as capital (resources shifted)
– Never recovered importance
– Became “forgotten” imperial city

What It Shows Today:
– Architectural remnants of power
– Less developed than Fes/Marrakech (fewer tourist developments)
– Authentic city feel (not heavily touristy)
– Historic importance still visible

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WHAT TO SEE IN MEKNES?

The Gates (Bab Mansour):
– Stunning entrance gate (tilework, architecture)
– Iconic, beautiful, not crowded
– Photo opportunity without masses

The Medina:
– Smaller than Fes (manageable)
– Real souks (less tourist-focused)
– Hammams still functioning
– Bakeries, spice markets, leather work

Palaces (Dar el-Makhzen):
– Royal palaces from Moulay Ismail era
– Mostly restored
– Gardens, architecture
– Some accessible (check current status)

The Royal Stables:
– Historic stables from imperial era
– Shows scale of royal power
– Interesting architecture

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VOLUBILIS – SIDE TRIP!

30 minutes from Meknes = Roman ruins.

What is Volubilis:
– Ancient Roman city
– “Farthest reach of Roman Empire”
– UNESCO World Heritage Site
– Morocco’s most impressive Roman ruins

What You See:
– Mosaic floors (remarkably preserved)
– Columns, forums, temples
– Panoramic views over olive groves
– Archaeological perfection

Why Visit:
– Unique (most travelers never see Roman Morocco)
– Context for history (understand regional importance)
– Beautiful setting (countryside views)

Logistical Note:
– Can do day trip from Meknes
– Or overnight in Meknes, explore both
– Best with guide (explains history)

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MEKNES PRACTICAL:

How Long to Stay:
– 1 day minimum (gates + medina)
– 2 days better (includes Volubilis)
– Doable as day trip from Fes or Rabat

Best Time:
– April-May (spring, pleasant)
– September-October (fall, good weather)
– Avoid July-August (heat, tourists)

Why It’s Good for Travelers:
– Less overwhelming than Fes
– Less touristy than Marrakech
– Rich history accessible
– Volubilis nearby
– Reasonable prices

— BELEW ARE LISTED TOURS THAT INCLUDE MEKNES!