Exploring the Historical Charms of Meknes with My Husband

Whispers of History and Faith
Today, Jan and I delved deeper into the soul of Meknes, a city that effortlessly blends the echoes of its imperial past with the vibrant pulse of modern Moroccan life. It was a day of architectural marvels and spiritual reflection, a journey that stirred both our minds and our hearts. As a librarian specializing in cultural exchange, I always seek to understand the stories behind the stones, and Meknes offered a rich tapestry of narratives.

Our day began, as most good days do, with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Lapin Lorraine. The morning air was crisp, carrying the scent of freshly baked bread and strong coffee. It wasn't the most remarkable place, but it was a cozy start to the day. Fortified, we set out to explore the city's iconic landmarks.

The first stop on our itinerary was Bab El Mansour Laalej. As we approached, the sheer scale and intricate detail of the gate were breathtaking. It stood before us as a majestic entrance to the old city. The gate is considered one of the most beautiful gates in the world. The gate was constructed in the 18th century. The towering archway was adorned with vibrant blue and green tiles.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

Bab Mansour was conceived as an elaborate homage. I learned that Sultan Moulay Ismail envisioned it not as a defensive structure, but as a tribute to himself and his dynasty. The architect, Mansour Laalej, a Christian convert to Islam, sought to elevate his status in the Sultan's court through this masterpiece. Jan, with his historian's eye, pointed out the marble columns, remnants of the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, a subtle reminder of the layers of history that define Morocco. We spent a good while simply admiring the gate, taking in the artistry and imagining the countless stories that had passed through its arches.


Explore the majestic Bab El Mansour Laalej in Meknes, where history and stunning architecture unite in a vibrant cultural atmosphere.

From the grandeur of Bab Mansour, we ventured into the heart of the Medina, drawn by the spiritual allure of the Great Mosque of Meknes. The mosque is the main mosque of the old city. This historic mosque, dating back to the 12th century, stands as a testament to the city's enduring faith and architectural heritage. As non-Muslims, we couldn't enter the prayer hall, but we were able to admire the exterior and sense the profound sense of peace that radiated from within.


Discover the architectural beauty and cultural significance of the Great Mosque of Meknes, a must-see landmark in Morocco's historic city.

I was particularly fascinated by the mosque's history, learning about its construction during the Almoravid dynasty and its subsequent restoration and expansion under various rulers. Jan shared his knowledge of the mosque's unique features, such as the green faience tiles that adorn the minaret, a distinctive characteristic of Meknes. The Great Mosque has a large interior prayer hall with a floor area of about 3500 square meters. The mosque has 11 gates, with Bab al-Kutub being one of the primary entrances. The mosque also has a large courtyard with a central fountain.

After immersing ourselves in the spiritual ambiance of the Great Mosque, our stomachs began to rumble, guiding us towards Restaurant Ya Hala for lunch. This charming eatery promised traditional Moroccan cuisine, and it certainly delivered. We shared a tagine, the rich aroma filling the air as we savored each bite. The restaurant had traditional dishes and an authentic ambiance. The tagine was delicious. We enjoyed the tasty mint tea.


Experience authentic Moroccan dining at Restaurant Ya Hala in Meknes - where every dish tells a story.

As the afternoon sun began to dip, casting long shadows across the city, we decided to seek refuge from the heat in Le Pub, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere. It was a welcome change of pace, a chance to unwind and observe the rhythm of Meknes from a different perspective. I enjoyed a glass of local wine while Jan reminisced about his days as a history teacher, drawing parallels between Meknes and other ancient cities he had studied. The pub had a relaxed atmosphere. The pub had Moroccan specialties and Asian dishes. There was Moroccan music playing.


Discover the lively charm of Le Pub in Meknès, a perfect spot to unwind with friends and enjoy local drinks.

For our final meal of the day, we chose Restaurant Louis XIV, drawn by its reputation for fine dining and a cozy atmosphere. The restaurant offers British and Arabic cuisines. I opted for a pizza. Jan had lasagna. The prices were reasonable. The decor was homey. As we savored our meals, we reflected on the day's experiences, the grandeur of Bab Mansour, the serenity of the Great Mosque, and the simple pleasures of Moroccan cuisine.


Discover the enchanting flavors of Morocco at Restaurant Louis XIV in Meknès – a delightful fusion of tradition and modern dining.

As we strolled back to our riad, the city was alive with the sounds of evening prayers and the chatter of locals. It was Friday, and the atmosphere was particularly vibrant. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience Meknes in all its glory. It was a day that had nourished our souls and deepened our appreciation for the beauty and complexity of Moroccan culture.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Royal Stables and Bab El Mansour again, eager to capture more of its beauty in the daylight. We also intend to explore Galerie La Boucle. I'm particularly excited about visiting the Royal Stables, as I've always been fascinated by horses and their role in history. As I drift off to sleep, I can't help but wonder what new adventures and discoveries await us in the days to come. I am also hoping to find a power adapter, as I forgot to pack one.