Exploring the Spiritual Heart of Morocco: An 11-Day Journey in Moulay Idriss

Whispers of History, Echoes of Laughter

Today, Aoife and I embarked on a journey through time and culture, immersing ourselves in the heart of Meknes. It was a day filled with reverence, exploration, and the simple joys of experiencing a new place together. The city unfolded before us, revealing layers of history and vibrant local life that captivated our senses.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Roman City, a charming spot where we fueled up for the adventures ahead. The strong coffee and local pastries were just what we needed to kickstart our exploration of Meknes. With the sun shining, we set off to explore the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.


Explore the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail in Meknes, a stunning historical landmark showcasing the architectural beauty of Morocco's rich heritage.

A Sacred Space

The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is a place where history and spirituality intertwine. As we approached the mausoleum, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. Moulay Ismail, who ruled Morocco from 1672 to 1727, transformed Meknes into a magnificent imperial city. The mausoleum, his final resting place, stands as a testament to his power and vision.
The architecture was breathtaking, a beautiful blend of traditional Moroccan and Islamic styles. Intricate mosaics, or zellij, adorned the walls, and carved stucco added a layer of delicate beauty. Aoife was particularly taken with the geometric patterns, tracing them with her fingers as we moved through the courtyards. I was fascinated to learn that Moulay Ismail chose this location partly because it was already considered sanctified by the tomb of Sidi ‘Abd ar-Rahman al-Majdub, a 16th-century poet and Sufi mystic.

We wandered through the courtyards, each one leading to another, more intimate space. The sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating the exquisite details of the craftsmanship. Although non-Muslims cannot enter the actual tomb, we were able to explore the entry hall and front courtyards. The air was thick with a sense of reverence, and I found myself reflecting on the passage of time and the enduring legacy of Moulay Ismail.

Visiting the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is not just a sightseeing activity; it's an immersion into the soul of Morocco, a place where history whispers and spirituality resonates.

Leaving the mausoleum, we made our way towards Lahdim Square. The transition from the quiet solemnity of the mausoleum to the bustling energy of the square was quite striking.


Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Lahdim Square, a must-visit landmark in Meknès, Morocco, surrounded by lively markets and stunning architecture.

The Pulse of Meknes

Lahdim Square, also known as El Hedim Square, is the heart of Meknes. It's a vast open space where locals and tourists alike gather to soak in the vibrant atmosphere. As we stepped into the square, we were immediately enveloped by a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells.

Food stalls lined one side of the square, grilling meats and spices perfuming the air. Storytellers captivated small crowds with their tales, their voices rising above the general din. We watched as a snake charmer coaxed a cobra from its basket, the flute's melody weaving a spellbinding rhythm. Aoife, ever the adventurer, was keen to try some of the local delicacies. We sampled some grilled kebabs and spicy olives, savoring the explosion of flavors.

I bartered for a vintage map of Morocco with a shop owner, reminiscing about my collection back in Dublin. The square was alive with activity, a true reflection of Moroccan culture. We sat at a café, sipping mint tea and watching the world go by. The square separates the Medina and the Imperial City.

For lunch, we stopped at Cafe Restaurant Nassim. The tagine was absolutely delicious, the tender meat falling off the bone and the vegetables cooked to perfection. The owner, a friendly man with a warm smile, shared stories about his family and the history of the café. It was moments like these that made our trip so special, connecting with people and learning about their lives.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Restaurant Nassim, where delightful grill specialties meet a warm, inviting atmosphere.

A Nightcap and Sweet Dreams

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over Meknes, we decided to treat ourselves to a drink at La Colombe Blanche. Although technically located in Moulay Idriss, the bar came highly recommended, and we were not disappointed. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.


Discover the charm of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun at La Colombe Blanche, where tradition meets comfort in an unforgettable Moroccan guest house experience.

We savored our drinks, reflecting on the day's adventures. The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail had been a humbling experience, a reminder of the rich history and spiritual heritage of Morocco. Lahdim Square had been a sensory overload, a vibrant tapestry of Moroccan life.

For dinner, we dined at Haytam, a local restaurant known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. The couscous was light and fluffy, and the flavors were subtle yet complex. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Haytam in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - a hidden gem for food lovers seeking traditional delights.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Le portail de Moulay Ismaïl and Kasabah Senhaji. I am looking forward to discovering more hidden gems and experiencing the authentic charm of this region.

Back at our guesthouse, I sat down to write, the sounds of Meknes fading into the night. Aoife was already asleep, her face serene and content. As I closed my laptop, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for this incredible journey we were sharing. Morocco had captured our hearts, and I knew that the memories we were creating would last a lifetime.

Before drifting off to sleep myself, I made sure to check our packing list to prepare for tomorrow. I am glad I double-checked, as I realized we forgot to pack a light jacket for the cool evenings. Luckily, we can pick one up at قيصرية مولاي ادريس tomorrow while exploring the local shops. Good night from Meknes!