Cultural Immersion in the Moulay Idriss Region

A Day Immersed in History

Today, Lena and I embarked on a journey through time as we explored the historical treasures of Meknes. From the serene Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail to the bustling Bab Boujloud and the artisan workshops, every corner of this city seemed to whisper tales of the past. It’s days like these that remind me why I love traveling – the chance to connect with history and culture on such a profound level.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe restaurant ain zwawk مقهى و مطعم عين زواوق. Fuelled with strong coffee and local pastries, we set off to explore the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. Finding it was a bit of a treasure hunt in itself, tucked away and not clearly marked, but asking a few locals set us on the right path. The effort was more than worth it. The mausoleum is a place where non-Muslims can experience Moroccan spiritualism.

Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the tranquility. The bright yellow courtyards created a sense of peace, a stark contrast to the bustling city outside. The architecture was stunning, with intricate plasterwork and delicate zellij tiles adorning the walls. Although non-Muslims can’t enter the tomb itself, the anteroom was breathtaking enough. Sunlight streamed through the windows, illuminating the exquisite details.

The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is not just a historical landmark; it is a peaceful retreat filled with wisdom and artistry.

It’s fascinating to think that Sultan Moulay Ismail chose this location, once the city's courthouse, hoping to be judged by his people in death. The symmetry in the design, the gentle sounds of the fountain, and the overall serenity made it a truly special place. Lena was particularly taken with the geometric patterns and spent a good while photographing the details.

Next on our list was Bab Boujloud, the iconic blue gate of Fez. After a short drive, we arrived at this bustling entrance to the medina. The gate itself is a relatively recent construction, built in 1913, but it stands as a symbol of Fez's identity. The intricate tilework is mesmerizing, with blue on the outside and green on the inside, representing the colors of Fez and Islam, respectively.

As we approached Bab Boujloud, the energy of the medina washed over us. The sounds of vendors, the scent of spices, and the vibrant colors created a sensory overload in the best possible way. We paused to admire the gate's architecture, taking in the two minarets visible through the archway – one belonging to the Sidi Lazzaz mosque and the other to the Bou Inania Medersa.

We decided to have lunch at Restaurant Moulay Idriss, a local favorite. The tagine was flavorful, and the mint tea was the perfect refreshment on a hot day. Refueled, we ventured into the medina, ready to explore the artisan workshops. It's amazing to think that this gate is more than just a structure; it's a connection between the old and the new, a gateway to Fez's rich cultural and religious heritage.

In the afternoon, we had the pleasure of visiting The Anou Cooperative, a place I had read about extensively before our trip. This cooperative is a unique project that empowers local artisans by providing them with a platform to sell their crafts directly to customers. It’s a fair trade initiative that cuts out the middlemen, ensuring that the artisans receive fair wages for their hard work.

As someone who appreciates sustainable living and ethical practices, I was eager to see The Anou Cooperative in action. We were greeted warmly by the women working there, who were incredibly generous with their time and energy. They showed us the intricate process of rug making, from spinning the wool to using natural dyes. Lena, with her background in graphic design, was particularly interested in the colors and patterns.

We even participated in a mini-workshop, trying our hand at weaving a small rug. Let me tell you, it’s much harder than it looks! It gave us a whole new appreciation for the skill and dedication of these artisans. The Anou Cooperative offers a variety of workshops, from rug weaving to yarn spinning, providing visitors with a hands-on experience of Moroccan craftsmanship.

I found myself purchasing some yarns, made from 100% wool and dyed with natural materials like madder roots and pomegranate. I'm already envisioning knitting a cozy sweater with them back in Munich. Lena, of course, couldn't resist buying a beautiful Moroccan rug, knowing it would be shipped directly to our home. It’s comforting to know that our purchase directly supports these talented artisans and their families.

Before dinner, we took some time to wander through the souks, soaking in the atmosphere and picking up a few souvenirs. The medina of Fez is a maze of narrow streets, each filled with its own unique treasures. It's easy to get lost, but that's part of the fun. Every turn reveals something new and exciting.

For dinner, we decided to try Volubilis Restaurant, known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine. The ambiance was cozy, and the food was delicious. We shared a tagine and some couscous, savoring the flavors of Morocco one last time before heading back to our homestay.

As we reflect on our day, we realize how much we have experienced. From the spiritual tranquility of the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail to the vibrant energy of Bab Boujloud and the ethical craftsmanship of The Anou Cooperative, Meknes has left an indelible mark on our hearts. It’s a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and community, offering visitors a truly immersive experience.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Kasabah Senhaji and Bassin Souani صهريج السواني, which I am very much looking forward to. We'll also be trying out La Baraka for breakfast, Al Andaloussiya Diyafa for lunch, and SCORPION HOUSE for dinner. And, if we have time, we might visit Dar Zerhoune for a drink.

As I sit here writing, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore this fascinating region with Lena. It’s moments like these that make all the planning and preparation worthwhile. I’m already looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you tomorrow!