Exploring the Historical Charms of Meknes with My Husband

Whispers of the Past in Meknes

Our Moroccan adventure has officially begun! After a smooth flight from Warsaw to Casablanca and a comfortable train ride to Meknes with Jan, I'm thrilled to share our first impressions of this captivating city. There’s something magical about arriving in a new place, especially one so steeped in history and culture. The air is warm, carrying the scent of spices and the sounds of a language I’m only just beginning to learn.

Our day started, as most good days do, with a delightful breakfast at Riad Lahboul. The traditional Moroccan pastries and mint tea were the perfect introduction to the local cuisine. We savored every bite, knowing we needed the energy for a day of exploration. Fortified and eager, we set out to immerse ourselves in the heart of Meknes: the Meknès Médina.


Discover the historical charm of Meknès Médina, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with rich culture and stunning Moroccan architecture.

The Meknès Médina is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, bustling souks, and hidden courtyards. It felt like stepping back in time, each corner revealing a new sensory experience. The vibrant colors of the textiles, the intricate metalwork, and the fragrant spices created a symphony for the senses. Jan, ever the history buff, was in his element, pointing out architectural details and imagining the lives of those who walked these streets centuries ago. I was captivated by the energy of the place, the constant flow of people, and the sense of community that permeated the air.

We wandered through the Médina, allowing ourselves to get lost in its maze-like streets. It wasn't long before we stumbled upon a small shop selling hand-woven carpets. The owner, a friendly man with twinkling eyes, invited us in for a glass of mint tea. We sat and chatted with him for a while, learning about the history of carpet making in Morocco and the intricate symbolism woven into each design. It was moments like these, unexpected encounters with locals, that truly made the experience special.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurant Riad Selma, a hidden gem tucked away in a quiet corner of the Médina. The tagine was absolutely divine, a slow-cooked stew of tender meat, vegetables, and aromatic spices. It was the perfect fuel for our afternoon adventure: a visit to the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail.


Discover the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail, a stunning historical landmark in Meknes, showcasing exquisite Moroccan architecture and rich cultural heritage.

The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is a place of profound beauty and tranquility. Sultan Moulay Ismail chose this location hoping in death to be judged in his own court by his own people. The intricate carvings, the delicate mosaics, and the soaring arches are a testament to the skill and artistry of Moroccan craftsmen. The pale-yellow courtyards offered a serene contrast to Ismail's turbulent and cruel reign. Although non-Muslims cannot enter the tomb itself, the anteroom is breathtaking, adorned with exquisite zellij, enamel-painted wood, and graceful marble columns. I found myself lost in contemplation, reflecting on the life and legacy of this powerful ruler. The serenity of the space was deeply moving.

As we explored the mausoleum, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the rich history and culture of Morocco. It was a privilege to be able to witness such beauty and craftsmanship firsthand. Jan and I took our time, soaking in the atmosphere and capturing the details with our cameras. I even managed to sketch a few of the intricate designs in my notebook, hoping to preserve the memory of this special place.

After our visit to the Mausoleum, we decided to take a break at Bar Transatlantique. It was the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a long day of exploring. We sipped on refreshing drinks, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the lively atmosphere. The bar was filled with locals and tourists alike, all sharing stories and laughter. It was a great opportunity to people-watch and soak in the local culture.


Discover the enchanting Bar Transatlantique in Meknes, where live piano music and exquisite drinks create the perfect ambiance for a relaxing night out.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Palais Ismailia, eager to sample more of the local cuisine. The setting was grand and opulent, befitting the name of the restaurant. The food was delicious, a feast of Moroccan flavors and textures. We savored every bite, knowing that this was just the beginning of our culinary adventure in Meknes. We chatted about our favorite moments from the day, already planning our itinerary for tomorrow. Volubilis and the Dar Jamai Museum await!


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Palais Ismailia in Meknes - where flavor meets tradition in a vibrant setting.

As I sit here now, writing in my journal, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. Meknes has already captured my heart, and I know that the days to come will be filled with even more wonder and discovery. I'm especially looking forward to our visit to Volubilis tomorrow. Jan has been telling me all about the Roman ruins, and I can't wait to see them for myself. I'm also excited to explore the Dar Jamai Museum, which I hear is a treasure trove of Moroccan art and artifacts.

I must remember to buy a power adapter; it completely slipped my mind while packing! And perhaps a lighter long-sleeved shirt would be wise for sun protection. But for now, I'm content to simply soak in the memories of this first day in Meknes. It's a city that whispers stories of the past, inviting you to listen and learn. And I, for one, am eager to hear more.

Good night from Meknes!

P.S. I almost forgot to mention! While wandering through the Médina, we stumbled upon what seemed to be preparations for some kind of local celebration. There were colorful banners being hung and music being played in the streets. It seems Meknes is hosting several conferences this September, so perhaps it's related to one of those. I'll try to find out more tomorrow and share it with you all!