Cultural Immersion in the Moulay Idriss Region

Journey Through History and Holiness

Today, Lena and I embarked on a journey that bridged the grandeur of imperial cities with the serene spirituality of sacred grounds. From the bustling streets of Meknes to the tranquil atmosphere of Moulay Idriss, we soaked in the rich tapestry of Moroccan history and culture. It was a day of contrasts, where the echoes of sultans and the whispers of saints intertwined to create an unforgettable experience.

Our day began with a hearty Moroccan breakfast at SCORPION HOUSE. The panoramic views from the hillside perch were breathtaking, stretching across the town and surrounding hills all the way to Volubilis. It felt like we were having breakfast on top of the world. The fresh mint tea and warm bread gave us the perfect start for a day of exploration. I always appreciate a good view with my morning coffee, and this one certainly didn't disappoint. Lena, ever the artist, was captivated by the play of light on the landscape, already sketching in her travel journal. I made a mental note to try and recreate the mint tea when we get back to Munich; it's a taste I want to hold onto.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Scorpion House in Moulay Idriss - a hidden gem serving delightful lunches amidst rich cultural heritage.

After breakfast, we set off to explore Dar El-Makhzen. Though the Dar El-Makhzen I know is in Fez and serves as the official residence of the King of Morocco, I was intrigued to explore the one in Meknes. This majestic structure, built by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, exudes splendor. We wandered through the courtyards, admiring the intricate details of the architecture. The palace, though now a museum, still carries the echoes of royal history. Lena was particularly impressed by the Andalusian garden, finding inspiration for her graphic designs. I found myself pondering the lives of those who once walked these halls, the sultans and their courts, their ambitions and intrigues.


Explore Dar El-Makhzen in Meknes, a stunning royal palace showcasing Morocco's rich history and breathtaking architecture amidst lush gardens.

To truly understand a place, you must walk its streets, taste its food, and listen to its stories.

Next on our itinerary was the imperial city of Meknes itself. Founded in the 11th century, Meknes is one of Morocco's four Imperial cities, and it quickly became apparent why. The city flourished under Sultan Moulay Ismail, who transformed it into a magnificent capital. We explored the historical Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and were immediately swept up in its vibrant atmosphere. The bustling souks were a feast for the senses, with the aromas of spices, the vibrant colors of textiles, and the lively chatter of vendors. Lena, of course, was in her element, haggling for a beautiful Berber rug while I sampled some local dates. It's moments like these, sharing new experiences, that make our travels so special.

For lunch, we found ourselves at Restaurant Volubilis. While the reviews mentioned a somewhat disappointing service, we were pleasantly surprised by the relaxed atmosphere and the delicious food. I opted for a traditional tagine, savoring the rich flavors of the slow-cooked meat and vegetables. Lena chose a lighter couscous dish, which she declared was the perfect balance of savory and sweet. It was a welcome respite from the midday sun, and we enjoyed watching the locals go about their day as we ate.


Discover Volubilis: A Journey Through Ancient Roman History in Morocco's Enchanting Ruins.

In the afternoon, we ventured to the sacred city of Moulay Idriss. Perched on the slopes of Mount Zerhoun, this town is named after Moulay Idriss I, who brought Islam to Morocco in 789. The city is a significant pilgrimage site, and we could feel the sense of reverence in the air. Non-Muslims were once forbidden from staying overnight, adding to its mystique, but thankfully those restrictions are in the past. We wandered through the narrow, winding streets, admiring the green-tiled roofs and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The atmosphere was palpably different from the bustling energy of Meknes; here, a sense of peace and contemplation reigned.

Our final activity for the day was shopping at زيارة باب مولاي إدريس. This area is known for its unique shops and local crafts. We found several small shops selling traditional Moroccan goods. Lena picked up some argan oil, while I found a beautiful hand-carved wooden box that I plan to use for storing my brewing herbs back in Munich. Supporting local artisans is important to us, and it’s always nice to bring home something that has a story behind it.


Explore the captivating antique store in Moulay Idriss for a unique glimpse into Morocco's rich history and culture.

For dinner, we chose La Baraka, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. The setting was intimate, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, each bursting with fresh flavors. For our main courses, Lena had a flavorful couscous, and I indulged in a tagine. The tagine was rich and aromatic, perfectly capturing the essence of Moroccan cuisine. As we ate, we reflected on the day’s adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience such diverse aspects of Moroccan culture.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at La Baraka in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm glow over the hills of Moulay Idriss, we made our way back to our homestay. The call to prayer echoed through the valley, a reminder of the deep spiritual roots of this place. It was a fitting end to a day that had taken us from the grandeur of imperial Meknes to the serene holiness of Moulay Idriss. I feel like I’m starting to grasp the soul of Morocco, and I look forward to seeing what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Heri es-Souani and Place Moulay Hassan in Meknes []. I’m particularly excited to visit Heri es-Souani, the ancient granary and stables built by Moulay Ismail []. It’s said to be an architectural marvel, and I can’t wait to see it for myself. Lena is looking forward to Place Moulay Hassan, hoping to capture some of the local life in her sketches. We’ll also be trying out Cafe Restaurant Nassim for breakfast, Haytam for lunch, and Grillade Albanna for dinner []. And perhaps, if we have time, we’ll stop by La Colombe Blanche, a local bar, for a taste of Moroccan nightlife [].

The blend of history, culture, and spirituality we experienced today was truly enriching. As we prepare for another day of exploration, I'm reminded of why we chose this trip: to immerse ourselves in a world so different from our own, to learn, to grow, and to connect with the heart of a new culture. And so far, Morocco has not disappointed.

As I sit here, writing in my journal, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Morocco is a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions meet modern life, and where the warmth of the people shines through even the hottest desert sun. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings, knowing that each day here is a new opportunity to discover the magic of this enchanting country. The experiences from today will surely stay with me long after we've returned to our brewery in Munich.