Exploring the Historic Charms of Moulay Idriss, Morocco

Meknes Unveiled: A Journey Through History and Culture

Today, Jan and I immersed ourselves in the vibrant city of Meknes, a treasure trove of Moroccan history and culture. From exploring ancient gates to discovering unique crafts and savoring local cuisine, it was a day filled with delightful surprises and enriching experiences. I am always excited to share our adventures, especially when they involve such a deep dive into the heart of Moroccan heritage.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Haytam. We enjoyed traditional Moroccan pancakes with honey and a refreshing mint tea. The simple, yet flavorful breakfast was the perfect start to a day of exploration. It reminded me of the breakfasts I used to prepare for Layla when she was younger, simple, nourishing, and full of love.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Haytam in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - a hidden gem for food lovers seeking traditional delights.
Fueled and ready, we set out to explore Bab Boujloud, the iconic blue gate of Meknes. As we approached, the intricate details of the gate captivated us. The vibrant blue tiles sparkled under the morning sun, creating a mesmerizing sight. Jan, with his engineering mind, was particularly fascinated by the architecture and the sheer scale of the gate. It was built in 1913, relatively recent compared to other Moroccan historical sites, yet it stood as a testament to the city's enduring legacy. The gate served as the main entrance to the medina, and as we stepped through, we were immediately transported to a world of bustling markets and narrow alleyways.


Discover the stunning Bab Boujloud, the Blue Gate of Fes, a vibrant entrance to the historic medina filled with culture, history, and local charm.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing the everyday life of its people.

Next on our itinerary was Khemis Gate, another of Meknes's historic gates. Unlike the vibrant Bab Boujloud, Khemis Gate exuded a more subdued, yet equally compelling charm. Built in the 17th century during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail, it once served as the main entrance to the Mellah, the Jewish quarter. The gate's name, 'Khemis,' refers to the Thursday market that was held nearby. As we stood before the gate, I imagined the bustling marketplace, filled with traders and visitors from all corners of Morocco. The gate, with its ancient architecture and rich history, truly captivated us. We took our time to admire it from different angles, capturing photos of its intricate details. It was a humbling experience to stand in a place that had witnessed centuries of history. Jan pointed out the geometric patterns and the subtle differences in design compared to Bab Boujloud, highlighting the evolution of Moroccan architecture over time. It reminded me of the historical sites in Ha'il, where I grew up, and the importance of preserving these cultural landmarks for future generations.


Discover the historical marvel of Khemis Gate in Meknes, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture and a gateway to the city's rich cultural heritage.
After exploring the gates, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon, enticed by its reputation for authentic Moroccan cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. We ordered a tagine and couscous, both of which were bursting with flavor. The tagine was cooked to perfection, the meat tender and succulent, and the vegetables infused with aromatic spices. The couscous was light and fluffy, served with a rich and flavorful broth. It was a truly satisfying meal that gave us a taste of the real Morocco. Jan particularly enjoyed the couscous, commenting on its delicate flavor and perfect texture. I savored the tagine, reminiscing about the similar dishes my mother used to make back in Saudi Arabia. Food, after all, is a universal language that connects us to our roots and to each other.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the charming ambiance of Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.
In the afternoon, we visited The Anou Cooperative, a unique shop showcasing the work of over 600 artisans from around Morocco. This cooperative operates on fair-trade principles, ensuring that the artisans receive 100% of the price tag, a stark contrast to the meager 4% they typically receive in the souks. As we entered the shop, we were greeted by a colorful array of handcrafted rugs, jewelry, leatherwork, and metalwork. Each item was unique, bearing the mark of the artisan who created it. We had the opportunity to meet some of the artisans and learn about their craft. Their passion and dedication were truly inspiring. I was particularly drawn to the rugs, each one telling a story through its intricate patterns and vibrant colors. Jan was impressed by the metalwork, admiring the skill and precision of the artisans. We purchased a small rug as a souvenir, knowing that our purchase was directly supporting the artisans and their families. It was a much more meaningful experience than buying a mass-produced item from a tourist shop.


Explore The Anou Cooperative in Fès for a unique shopping experience that supports local artisans and celebrates Moroccan craftsmanship.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurant Moulay Idriss for dinner. The restaurant was located in a traditional Moroccan building, with a beautiful courtyard and a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the city. We sat on the terrace, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the panoramic views. The menu featured a variety of Moroccan specialties, and we decided to try the local dishes. We ordered a Mechoui, slow roasted lamb, and a Pastilla, a sweet and savory pie filled with pigeon and almonds. The Mechoui was incredibly tender and flavorful, the meat falling off the bone. The Pastilla was a revelation, the combination of sweet and savory creating a truly unique taste sensation. It was a fitting end to a day of culinary exploration. Jan, who usually prefers simpler fare, was surprisingly taken with the Pastilla, declaring it one of the most interesting dishes he had ever tasted. I enjoyed the Mechoui, savoring the rich and smoky flavor of the lamb. It reminded me of the traditional feasts back home, where lamb is a staple of celebratory meals.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Moulay Idriss in Fes El Bali - a true culinary gem for travelers seeking local flavors.
As we walked back to our accommodation, we reflected on the day's experiences. Meknes had exceeded our expectations, offering a blend of history, culture, and culinary delights. The ancient gates, the bustling markets, the unique crafts, and the delicious food had all contributed to a memorable day. It reminded me of why I love to travel, to discover new places, to learn about different cultures, and to connect with people from all walks of life.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Lahdim Square and Heri es-Souani, continuing our journey through the historical wonders of Meknes. We are also looking forward to trying out LA TERRASSE, a local bar, for a relaxing evening. I am excited to see what new adventures await us as we continue to explore this fascinating country. And of course, I am eager to share our experiences with you, my dear readers, as we continue our 11-day journey through Morocco.

I am also reminded that I need to pick up a portable phone charger, a local SIM card, and sunglasses – items I foolishly forgot to pack. Traveling always teaches me something new, even about myself!

Before I close for the night, I must note the kindness and hospitality of the Moroccan people. It reminds me of the warmth I miss from my homeland. I am thankful for these shared moments with Jan and look forward to what tomorrow will bring.

Until then, good night from Meknes!