Bab Mansour truly is one of the most beautiful gates in North Africa. Step through its majestic archway and find yourself immersed in Moulay Ismaïl's dream... In the Imperial city, even the ruins are grandiose. Those of Dar el-Kebira, the first palace built by Moulay Ismaïl, contained two mosques and more than twenty pavilions. Marvel at the ruins of Dar el-Makhzen (Royal Palace), which was one of the most sumptuous palaces of Meknes, exemplified by this stunning view of arcades open to the sky

In the traditional, unusual and picturesque souks of Meknes, ordinary objects become extraordinary. In the main square, fondouks (warehouses with accommodation), hairdressers, blacksmiths and bazaars vie for custom. Listen, the sound of music is coming from the Bab el-Jedid gate. That is not surprising, for this is where you will find the musical instrument shops. Bang on the taut skin of a derbouka (drum), you will not be able to resist the temptation.

 

The Dar Jamaï. The Museum of Moroccan Art The Magnificent 19th century palace is worth a detour purely for its architecture. All the crafts are represented, especially those for which Meknes is renowned. Brilliantly coloured ceramics, embroidery in its bold, rainbow hues and magnificently painted chests and carved moucharabieh panels.

Marking Time in the Mausoleum Moulay Ismaïl asked for the hand of the Princesse de Conti, daughter of Louis XIV. His suit was rejected but the Sun King accompanied his refusal with a gift of magnificent clocks which can be admired in the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismaïl