Vacation Packages to Meknes

General Information about Meknes

Meknes, Morocco's imperial city, is a stunning place that combines rich Moroccan history and culture with a contemporary vibe. This ancient city is surrounded by impressive city walls and boasts a wealth of impressive monuments, palaces and mosques. 

In Meknes, you can experience an authentic Moroccan adventure, from exploring the local markets to enjoying the region's delicious cuisine.

The historic center of Meknes, known as the Medina, is a maze of narrow streets, squares and stores worth exploring. 

Here you will find the impressive Royal Palace, a must-see that offers a breathtaking view of the city. You can also visit the Bou Inania Mosque, one of Morocco's finest architectural works, which features impressive marble and wooden details.

If you are a food lover, don't miss the opportunity to try the delicious local dishes, such as lamb with plums and almonds, couscous and harira, a traditional Moroccan soup. 

In addition, in the local markets you will find a wide variety of spices, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as beautiful handmade crafts.

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All in all, Meknes is a fascinating and vibrant city that has much to offer any traveler.

What to See in Meknes

Meknes is a historical and culturally rich city in Morocco. Here are 6 important things to see and visit during your vacation in Meknes:

The Medina of Meknes

The Medina of Meknes is a maze of narrow streets and squares surrounded by an impressive 40 kilometers long wall, dating back to the 17th century. It was built by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, who made it the capital of the kingdom and a city of impressive monuments and palaces.

The construction of the Medina of Meknes took more than 50 years and involved the help of more than 50,000 workers and slaves. Its architecture is influenced by Andalusian culture and features an impressive combination of Moorish, Almohad and Andalusian styles. 

During its golden age, Medina was known as the "City of a Thousand Towers" and was home to a population of more than one million inhabitants.

The Medina of Meknes is an important example of Moroccan architecture and urban planning and is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Today, it is a popular tourist destination in Morocco and attracts visitors from all over the world, who are fascinated by the rich history and culture of this impressive city.

The Bab Mansour Gate

The Bab Mansour Gate is one of the most emblematic monuments of Meknes, and is located at the main entrance of Medina. This monumental gate was built in the 18th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail, and is considered one of the most beautiful gates in the world.

The Bab Mansour Gate is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, with a stunning blend of Arab and European designs. 

It is adorned with complex designs in marble and ceramics, and features a horseshoe arcade that gives it a unique touch. In addition, the gate features a large square that has been the site of numerous events and festivals.

The history behind the Bab Mansour Gate is fascinating. It is said that Sultan Moulay Ismail ordered its construction after his son died in a battle that was being fought to take control of the city. 

The sultan wanted to commemorate his son and his victory over his enemies, so he commissioned this monumental gate as a symbol of his power and greatness.

Today, the Bab Mansour Gate is an important landmark in Meknes and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the square and the gate, and marvel at its impressive architecture and rich history.

The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail

The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is one of the most sacred and revered places in Meknes. It is located in the heart of the city, next to the Moulay Ismail Mosque, and is the final resting place of Sultan Moulay Ismail, one of the most important and powerful Moroccan governors.

The mausoleum was built in the 18th century, and is an impressive example of Moroccan architecture. Its design is simple and elegant, with an impressive green dome towering over the sultan's tomb. 

The interior is decorated with beautiful mosaics and a rock crystal chandelier, and is a quiet and sacred space for prayer and contemplation.

The story behind the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is fascinating. Moulay Ismail was an ambitious and energetic ruler who transformed Meknes into one of the most important cities in Morocco. After his death, his tomb became a place of pilgrimage and veneration, and the mausoleum was built to honor his memory and legacy.

The Royal Palace

The Royal Palace of Meknes is an impressive historical monument located in the center of the city. It was built by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century and is considered one of the largest and most luxurious palaces in Morocco.

The palace was designed to reflect the power and grandeur of the sultan. It is surrounded by high walls and features numerous buildings and courtyards, each of them decorated with intricate architectural details and beautiful mosaics. 

The palace served as the royal residence of the sultan and his court.

The history behind the Royal Palace of Meknes is intriguing. Moulay Ismail wanted to build a palace that reflected his power and grandeur, and he employed thousands of workers to build it. The palace became the epicenter of Morocco's political and social life during the Alawite dynasty.

The Museum of Moroccan Art

The Museum of Moroccan Art in Meknes is one of the most important museums in Morocco. It is housed in a 19th century building called the Dar El Jamai Palace, which was built by a wealthy merchant.

The palace served as a residence for the city's elite and was used as a school before becoming the Meknes Museum of Moroccan Art. At the museum, visitors can enjoy a varied collection of traditional Moroccan artifacts, including ceramics, jewelry, textiles and leather objects.

Visitors can explore the museum's various galleries and learn about Moroccan history and culture. In addition, the building itself is a tourist attraction due to its unique architecture, with a central courtyard with ceramic tiles, a fountain and lush gardens.

If you love Moroccan history and culture, the Museum of Moroccan Art in Meknes is definitely a place you should visit.

Traditional Food of Meknes

The food of the region is a combination of sweet, salty and spicy flavors, and is characterized by the use of fresh local ingredients and a wide variety of spices.

Among the most popular dishes are minted lamb, pastella and tajine. 

Mint lamb is cooked with onion, garlic and fresh mint, while pastella is a puff pastry filled with chicken or pigeon meat, egg, almonds, cinnamon and powdered sugar. 

Tajine is a stew cooked in a clay pot with vegetables, spices and lamb, chicken or fish meat.

In addition, Moroccan sweets are very popular in Meknes, and can be found in many local pastry shops. 

The sweets are made with ingredients such as dates, nuts, almonds and honey, and are usually served with mint tea.

If you have the opportunity to visit Meknes, be sure to try some of these traditional dishes to experience the rich culinary culture of the region. Meknes food is a delicious blend of flavors and aromas that you can't miss.

Cultural Aspects about Meknes

Meknes is a city in Morocco with a rich culture and history. The city has an impressive architectural legacy that includes Medina, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996, and the Royal Palace, which is an example of the Islamic-Andalusian architectural style. 

In addition, Meknes is known for its art, especially pottery and wood carving, which can be found in the Museum of Moroccan Art, located inside the Dar El Makhzen Palace.

The gastronomy of Meknes is delicious, and is characterized by dishes such as lamb tagine, pastella, couscous, and harira, a traditional soup served during the holy month of Ramadan.

The city is also rich in festivals and celebrations, including the International Sufi Music Festival, which takes place every year in the city. 

In addition, Meknes is home to Al-Qarawiyyin University, founded in the 9th century and considered one of the oldest universities in the world.

Meknes has also been home to many poets and writers throughout history, and is known for its literary tradition, ranging from poetry to prose. 

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