Family Journey to the Heart of Morocco: Exploring Moulay Idriss

Whispers of History
Today was a day of delving deep into Morocco's past, a journey that took us through ancient granaries and up to a sacred town perched on a mountaintop. It's amazing how much history is packed into this region, and I felt so grateful to share these experiences with Klaus and Ama. It was a day of contrasts, from the vast, echoing spaces of Heri es-Souani to the intimate, spiritual atmosphere of Zerhoun. These are the days that make travel so rewarding, offering glimpses into different ways of life and different eras.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Haytam. I enjoyed some traditional Moroccan pancakes and mint tea, while Klaus had his usual strong coffee. Ama, of course, was all about the fresh fruit. Fueled up and ready for adventure, we set off to explore Heri es-Souani, an ancient granary and stable complex near Meknes.


Explore the historical Heri es-Souani in Meknes, a grand architectural marvel reflecting Morocco's rich cultural heritage and history.
As we drove towards Heri es-Souani, I couldn't help but reflect on how different Morocco is from Potsdam. While I love our modern, eco-friendly home in Germany, there's something incredibly grounding about being surrounded by so much history. It reminds me of stories my grandmother used to tell me about Ghana's rich past, and it makes me appreciate the long, complex journey that has shaped our world. When we arrived, the sheer scale of the place was breathtaking. Built in the 18th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail, the complex once housed thousands of horses and stored vast quantities of grain. As we walked through the massive arched halls, I could almost hear the echoes of the past – the clatter of hooves, the voices of workers, the hustle and bustle of a thriving imperial city.

Klaus, ever the architect, was fascinated by the engineering of the building. He pointed out the ingenious water channels that kept the granaries cool and the clever design that allowed for efficient storage and distribution of resources. Ama, meanwhile, was more interested in running around and exploring the open spaces. I had to keep a close eye on her, but it was wonderful to see her so free and happy.

History isn't just about dates and names; it's about understanding the lives of the people who came before us and the world they created.

After spending a couple of hours exploring Heri es-Souani, we drove to Volubilis for lunch at the Restaurant Volubilis. It was a nice spot with a great view of the Roman ruins. I enjoyed a delicious tagine with chicken and olives, while Klaus opted for a grilled fish. Ama, predictably, devoured her plate of pasta. I always find it funny how, no matter where we are in the world, pasta is always a hit with her.


Discover Volubilis: A Journey Through Ancient Roman History in Morocco's Enchanting Ruins.
With our bellies full, we continued our journey to Zerhoun, the mountain upon which Moulay Idriss sits. As we climbed the winding road, the landscape changed dramatically. The flat plains gave way to rolling hills, and the air became noticeably cooler and fresher. The views were simply stunning. Olive groves and vineyards stretched out as far as the eye could see, and in the distance, we could glimpse the white-washed buildings of Moulay Idriss clinging to the hillside.


Discover the enchanting Zerhoun Mountain Peak in Morocco, a blend of breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage for every traveler.
Moulay Idriss is a town of immense religious significance in Morocco. Founded by Moulay Idriss I, a great-grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, it was once closed to non-Muslims and remains a major pilgrimage site. Although we couldn't enter the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss, the town itself exuded a palpable sense of spirituality.

We strolled through the narrow, winding streets, admiring the traditional architecture and soaking up the atmosphere. The town is perched on two hills, offering panoramic views at every turn. I was particularly struck by the cylindrical minaret of the Sentissi Mosque, adorned with green mosaic tiles and Quranic verses. It's the only one of its kind in Morocco, and its unique design added to the town's distinctive charm.

We stopped at one of the terraces, perhaps the Grande Terrasse or Petite Terrasse, to admire the view and take some photos. From there, we could see the entire town spread out before us, with the green-roofed Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss at its heart. The setting sun cast a golden glow over the landscape, creating a truly magical scene.

As we wandered, we came across a local artisan selling handmade crafts. I bought a beautiful ceramic bowl with intricate designs, a perfect reminder of our visit to this special place. I love supporting local artisans and bringing home unique souvenirs that tell a story.

Before dinner, we decided to stop at LA TERRASSE for a drink. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring. Klaus and I enjoyed a refreshing Moroccan mint tea, while Ama sipped on some juice. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and we chatted with some of the locals, learning more about the town and its history.


Experience the best of Moroccan grill cuisine at La Terrasse, where fresh flavors meet stunning coastal views in Moulay-Bousselham.
For dinner, we went to Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon. The food was delicious, and the ambiance was warm and inviting. I had a flavorful tagine with lamb and vegetables, while Klaus enjoyed a couscous dish. Ama, of course, was happy with her usual – pasta. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the charming ambiance of Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.
As we drove back to our accommodation, I felt a deep sense of gratitude. Today had been a truly special day, filled with history, culture, and breathtaking views. I was so happy to share these experiences with my family, and I knew that these memories would stay with us for a lifetime. Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciate the opportunity to expose Ama to different cultures and ways of life. As a Ghanaian woman living in Germany, I want her to grow up with a strong sense of her identity and a deep appreciation for the world's diversity. Travel is such a powerful tool for education and understanding, and I'm grateful that we can share these experiences as a family.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Kasabah Senhaji and Bassin Souani صهريج السواني. I'm excited to see what new adventures await us! I am particularly looking forward to visiting The Anou Cooperative.

I am also looking forward to breakfast at Cafe restaurant ain zwawk مقهى و مطعم عين زواوق. We plan to have lunch at SCORPION HOUSE and dinner at Al Andaloussiya Diyafa.