Meknes Morocco Tour: The Bab Mansour Gateway

Photo: The Bab Mansour Gateway. Meknes.

Meknes was founded by the Berbers in the 10th century, and it was the capital of Morocco during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century. Meknes was known for its grandeur and extravagance during Moulay Ismail’s reign, as he spared no expense in building magnificent palaces, mosques, and gardens. The city was also a hub for trade and commerce, due to its placement.

The city’s most prominent landmark is undoubtedly the grandiose Bab Mansour gate, a magnificent example of Moroccan architectural style, adorned with intricate carvings and colorful mosaics. Beyond the gate lies the city’s vast medina, a bustling marketplace where you can find anything from spices and textiles to traditional handicrafts and souvenirs.

But Meknes is also a place of culture and tradition, where music, dance, and culinary arts flourish. Be sure to taste the local delicacies, such as tagine, couscous, and pastilla, and witness the mesmerizing performances of the traditional Gnawa musicians.

Meknes is often referred to as the “Imperial City” because of its rich history and impressive architecture. It was once a center of trade, culture, and politics, so by getting here you can explore the city’s many impressive structures, like the mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, or the Heri es Souani water reservoir. Get lost in the Moroccan culture by visiting the medina, sampling local cuisine, and buying some traditional souvenirs.

Meknes has a Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences mild winters and hot summers. The best time to visit Meknes is during the spring and fall when the temperatures are pleasant. Summer months can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. In contrast, winter months are milder, with average temperatures hovering around 15 degrees Celsius.

Please consider that the weather in Meknes can be unpredictable, so be prepared for changes in temperature and maybe occasional rain showers when visiting this city.

Meknes has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. Here you can enjoy traditional Moroccan music and dance performances, sample local cuisine, and take pleasure in some drinks with friends. Some popular nightlife spots in Meknes include L’Atelier, La Cantine, and Le Comptoir Darna.

As many old cities from Morocco, Meknes counts with a medina which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But this one is among the most impressive and well-preserved medieval cities in the world. It features a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleys, lined with shops, souks, and traditional Moroccan houses. Only by getting here you can understand and be captivated by its magic.

Meknes is an interesting mix of the old with the new, which is split between the antique medina and the new city with some big properties and fancy cars. No matter where you go here, you’ll find plenty of things to do.

Let´s see some of the most important places to see in Meknes:

Meknes is known for its splendid palaces, impressive monuments, and beautiful gardens. But among the most significant places to visit here there is The Bab Mansour Gateway. The gateway is named after its architect, Mansour, who was an accomplished artist and artisan and it was built in the 18th century. As a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, this marvelous piece of art counts with intricate tile work, stunning mosaics, and ornate designs.

Some other impressive touristic places not to miss in Meknes are: the Bab El Khemis Gate, Heri Es Souani, the Dar Jamai Museum, Place El Hedim, the Bab Berdieyinne Mosque, among others.

Volubilis is an ancient Roman city located about 30 kilometers near Meknes. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Morocco. Visit is and explore the ruins of the city while you learn about its history and culture. The site has several impressive structures, including a basilica, a triumphal arch, and a forum.