Exploring the Historical Charms of Meknes with My Husband

A Day of Royal Horses and Ancient Gates

Today in Meknes, I felt like I was transported back to the era of sultans and their magnificent visions. The city is a fascinating blend of history and modern life, and every corner seems to whisper tales of the past. I'm excited to share my experiences from today, a day filled with architectural marvels, cultural immersion, and delightful culinary encounters.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Gout De Meknes. It was a delightful start, fueling us up for a day of exploration. The Moroccan pastries were a particular highlight, offering a sweet taste of local flavors. I must admit, I have a sweet tooth that is hard to tame, and those pastries did not disappoint!

Our first stop was the Royal Stables. Jan, with his historian's mind, was particularly excited about this, and I must say, the sheer scale of the place is astounding. It's hard to imagine that this vast complex once housed twelve thousand horses, each meticulously cared for. Sultan Moulay Ismail certainly had a soft spot for his equine companions, perhaps even more than for some of his human subjects. The stables, though largely in ruins due to an earthquake, still evoke a sense of the grandeur and opulence of the past. Walking through the seemingly unending halls, one can almost hear the echoes of hooves and the hustle of grooms attending to their charges.


Explore the Royal Stables of Meknes, a magnificent monument showcasing Morocco's equestrian heritage and royal history in an architectural masterpiece.

The weather in Meknes today was warm, with the sun shining brightly, typical for September. According to the forecast, we can expect similar conditions for the next few days. We made sure to apply sunscreen and stay hydrated, remembering the essentials I packed. However, I did realize I'd forgotten my power adapter, a minor inconvenience I'll need to address soon.

Next on our itinerary was the iconic Bab El Mansour, the grand gate that serves as the entrance to the old city. As we approached the gate, its sheer size and intricate details were breathtaking. Built in the 18th century by Sultan Moulay Ismail, it stands as a testament to Moroccan and Andalusian architectural styles. The gate is adorned with marble arches, vibrant green and white tiles, and elaborate patterns crafted by skilled artisans. Jan was in his element, pointing out the historical significance and architectural nuances of the gate. It's fascinating to think that this gate was not just a defensive structure but also a ceremonial entrance designed to impress visitors.


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

The beauty of Meknes lies not just in its monuments, but in the vibrant tapestry of daily life that unfolds within its walls.

For lunch, we ventured to Alwan Zitoun, a restaurant recommended for its local cuisine. The restaurant had a charming ambiance, and the menu offered a variety of Moroccan dishes. I opted for a tagine, while Jan chose a fish dish, both of which were flavorful and satisfying. It was a delightful culinary experience that gave us a taste of authentic Moroccan flavors.


Experience exquisite seafood dining at Alwan Zitoun in Meknes - where Moroccan flavors meet culinary artistry.

After lunch, we decided to explore Galerie La Boucle, a shop known for its unique collection of Moroccan crafts and souvenirs. I was hoping to find a special memento to remind me of our time in Meknes. The shop was a treasure trove of handcrafted items, from ceramics and textiles to jewelry and woodwork. I ended up purchasing a beautiful hand-painted ceramic bowl, while Jan found a vintage Berber rug that caught his eye. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when traveling, and Galerie La Boucle offered the perfect opportunity.


Explore the chic and diverse selections at Galerie La Boucle, a premier women's clothing store in Meknes, blending Moroccan tradition with modern style.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Collier de la Colombe for dinner. This restaurant is known for its Moroccan and international cuisine, as well as its panoramic terrace. We enjoyed a delicious meal while taking in the stunning views of Meknes. The atmosphere was relaxed and romantic, making it a perfect ending to our day. I savored a Moroccan-style trout, while Jan opted for a classic couscous. The service was attentive, and the overall experience was delightful.


Discover the exquisite flavors of Morocco at Collier de la Colombe in Meknes – where culinary excellence meets stunning views.

I learned that Meknes is also experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures expected to range between 40 and 44 degrees Celsius. We were fortunate that the weather was pleasant today, but we'll need to be mindful of the heat in the coming days and take necessary precautions.

Today being Saturday, I couldn't help but notice the bustling markets and local life around Bab El Hedim. The souks were alive with activity, offering everything from olives and spices to traditional crafts. It's moments like these that make travel so enriching, immersing oneself in the local culture and experiencing the rhythm of daily life.

One of the amusing moments of the day was trying to navigate the local transportation. We attempted to take a petit taxi, but the driver seemed to have a different destination in mind. After a few confusing exchanges, we decided to walk instead, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise, as we discovered hidden alleyways and charming corners of the city that we would have otherwise missed.

As I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and history of Meknes. The city has a unique charm that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. The blend of Moroccan and Andalusian influences is evident in every aspect of the city, from its architecture to its cuisine. It's a place where the past and present coexist harmoniously, creating a rich tapestry of culture and tradition.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Heri es-Souani and Borj Belkari, continuing our exploration of Meknes' historical sites. I'm particularly looking forward to seeing the granaries at Heri es-Souani, as I've heard they are an architectural marvel. We'll also be trying out some new restaurants, including Omnia for breakfast, La grillardière for lunch, and Restaurant Denver for dinner. And perhaps, we'll end the day with a relaxing drink at Bar Imad.

I'm also keeping an eye out for local events happening in Meknes during our stay. I noticed there's a dance performance, Danse : Chapitre CIE TSN, scheduled for September 12, but we'll unfortunately miss it. However, I'm hoping to find other cultural events or festivals that we can attend to further immerse ourselves in the local scene.

Meknes is proving to be a treasure trove of experiences, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. The city has a way of capturing your heart and leaving you wanting more. It's a place where history comes alive, and every moment is an opportunity to discover something new.

As I prepare for another day of exploration, I am reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, the famous Moroccan traveler: “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.” And indeed, Meknes has already given me so much to share, and I look forward to continuing my journey and sharing my stories with you.

Goodnight from Meknes!