For a glimpse into the grandeur of one of Meknes' greatest rulers of all time, Sultan Moulay Ismail, visit the Heri es-Sounai graineries and sit along the enormous, stone-lined Agdal Basin. This manmade lake is powered by a complex system of irrigation channels, and once served as a reservoir for the sultan's gardens and a pleasure lake for the royals.
Or take a trip to his final resting place. Because of his stature in Moroccan history, this sanctuary is open to non-Muslims, as well. Pass through a series of calm and peaceful courtyards to increase humility among visitors as they approach the tomb hall. This lavish showcase of Moroccan artistry is breathtaking, but keep in mind that non-Muslims are not allowed to approach the tomb itself.
Meknes is home to twenty-seven imperial and awe-inspiring gates, but none as stunning as the Bab el-Mansour. This is the largest of all of them, and has been well preserved. The lavish zellij and inscriptions along the top from 1732 when it was built by one of the greatest rulers of Meknes, Sultan Moulay Ismail's son, Moulay Abdallah. While you can't walk through the Bab itself, it still makes for an amazing photo opportunity.
Just south of the Bab el-Mansour is the mechouar, or the parade ground, known as Pl Lalla Aouda. This is where Moulay Ismail brought 16,000 slaves from sub-Sahara Africa thereby guaranteeing the continued existence of the elites by providing them with their own soldiers. The Sultan then provided them with women to produce more soldiers, and by the time he died, his Black Guard army had expanded tenfold.
One exciting thing to do while visiting Meknes, is to take a trip to the many qissariat, or covered markets. Some are devoted to selling textiles and carpets. Arrive early and watch the noisy auctions on a Sunday morning. The Okchen Market is where you'll find the fine embroidery, and along the Rue Najjarine you'll see stalls of babouches, or leather slippers. If it's jewelry you're looking for, visit the Qissariat ad-Dahab, and just outside the city wall you'll see stalls selling spices, herbs, nuts and an energetic flea market.
If you're going to shop in the many markets, make sure you haggle. Never accept the shopkeeper's first price, bargaining is part of the Moroccan tradition. The easiest trick, especially if you don't speak French or Arabic, is to offer exactly half of what they're asking. From there, the shopkeeper will lower their price. This goes round and round and until you agree on a price. If you don't agree, try walking out. That will likely get the shopkeeper to come around.
Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Meknes. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Fes to Volubilis via Meknes and Moulay Idriss Day Tour for $17 details
- From Rabat: Volubilis and Meknes Full-day Tour for $261 details
- From Fez: Volubilis, Moulay Idriss and Meknes Full Day Tour for $18 details