Meknes is one of Morocco's four imperial cities. Founded in the 11th century, it became the capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail , who profoundly transformed the city by building palaces, ramparts, granaries, and monumental gates. Its historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996 .
The city unfolds between the medina, the ancient fortifications, and the monuments of the imperial city. The famous Bab Mansour , El Hedim Square, and the royal granaries and stables are among Meknes' most iconic sites. The ensemble boasts an architecture that blends Moroccan traditions with Hispano-Moorish influences.
Meknes is also a good starting point for exploring northern Morocco. To the east, Fes allows you to continue discovering the imperial cities, while the area around Meknes opens onto the agricultural landscapes of the Saïss and the first foothills of the Middle Atlas.