Meknes Travel Guide

The medina of Meknes is the historic core of one of Morocco's four imperial cities. Planned in the 17th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail, it is known for its maze-like streets, traditional crafts souks and imperial gates such as the famous Bab Mansour, and the entire old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Mausoleum of Mouley Ismail in Meknes is the burial place of the Alawite sultan Mouley Ismail (ruled 1672-1727, famous for making Meknes his capital and building a vast army). Built in 1703 and restored in 1960, it is known for its fine zellige (mosaic tile), stucco carving and woodwork, and is one of the few religious sites in Morocco where non-Muslims are allowed to enter, with proper dress and removing shoes required.

Medersa Bou Inania is one of Meknes' finest and best-preserved Islamic schools. Built in the 14th century Marinid era, it features exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship — cedar woodcarving, zellige mosaics, stucco relief and Arabic calligraphy — an outstanding example of Moroccan Islamic architecture. Built 1351-1356 by Sultan Abu Inan Faris as both an Islamic school and mosque. A tranquil courtyard surrounded by student rooms. Exquisite decoration — lower walls with zellige tiles, upper walls with stucco and calligraphy, wooden eaves with cedar carvings. One of Morocco's few religious buildings open to non-Muslims. Visiting to admire the craftsmanship of Moroccan Islamic architecture is a beautiful Meknes experience.

Bab Mansour is one of Morocco's grandest and finest gates and Meknes' most iconic landmark. Built in the early 18th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail (completed 1732), it features magnificent scale, exquisite zellige mosaics and stucco — considered Morocco's most beautiful gate. At about 16 m high and 8 m wide, one of Morocco's largest. Decorated with white and green zellige tiles, stucco relief and Quranic inscriptions. Faces Place el-Hedim — Meknes' main square. Now a small exhibition space. Visiting to admire Morocco's grandest gate is an impressive Meknes experience.