Exploring the Historical Charms of Meknes with My Husband

A Day of Discovery in Meknes and Beyond

Today was a day of contrasts, a beautiful blend of the sacred and the bustling, the serene and the vibrant. Jan and I ventured beyond the familiar walls of Meknes to explore a town steeped in history and a square alive with the energy of Moroccan life. It was a day that fed both our souls and our senses, leaving us with memories I know we'll cherish long after we've returned to Warsaw.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Restaurant Roma. The aromas of roasted chicken and freshly baked bread filled the air, a comforting start to our explorations. It's funny, even after all these years of marriage, Jan still insists on ordering the same thing every morning – a simple omelette. I, on the other hand, opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen, a flaky pancake served with honey and cheese. It was the perfect fuel for our journey to Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.


Discover the sacred town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun, where history, spirituality, and stunning landscapes intertwine for an unforgettable Moroccan experience.
The drive to Moulay Idriss Zerhoun was picturesque, the landscape dotted with olive groves and rolling hills. As we approached the town, nestled in the Zerhoun Mountains, I could feel a sense of anticipation building. This is a place of immense spiritual significance for Moroccans, named after Moulay Idriss I, the founder of the Idrisid dynasty. He was a key figure who brought Islam to the region, and his tomb is a major pilgrimage site.

Walking through the narrow, winding streets of Moulay Idriss was like stepping back in time. The town is built around the shrine of Moulay Idriss, and although non-Muslims aren't allowed to enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere of reverence was palpable. We wandered through the Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, admiring the traditional Moroccan architecture and the green-tiled minaret of the Idriss Koranic School.

The beauty of travel lies not just in seeing new places, but in experiencing the layers of history and culture that shape them.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace in this holy town. It's a place where faith and history intertwine, creating a unique and powerful atmosphere. We learned that some Moroccans consider a pilgrimage to Moulay Idriss to be almost as important as the Hajj to Mecca. It's a testament to the enduring legacy of Moulay Idriss I and his impact on Moroccan culture.

After soaking in the spiritual atmosphere of Moulay Idriss, we made our way back to Meknes and headed straight for Place Lahdim.


Explore the vibrant heart of Meknes at Place Lahdim, a bustling town square filled with culture, history, and local charm.
What a contrast! This bustling square is the heart of Meknes, a place where locals and tourists alike gather to socialize, trade, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. The name Place Lahdim translates to place of demolition, a nod to its history as a site where rubble was dumped during the city's reconstruction.

The square was alive with activity. Storytellers captivated audiences with their tales, street vendors hawked their wares, and the air was filled with the sounds of music and laughter. We wandered through the stalls, admiring the colorful displays of spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Jan, ever the history buff, was fascinated by the architecture surrounding the square, a blend of old and new that reflects Meknes' rich past.

We stopped for lunch at Restaurant Louis XIV.


Discover the enchanting flavors of Morocco at Restaurant Louis XIV in Meknès – a delightful fusion of tradition and modern dining.
A place recommended by several locals. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere and served a mix of British and Arabic cuisine. Jan opted for a pizza, while I decided to try the beef tagine, a traditional Moroccan dish. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent.

As the sun began to set, Place Lahdim transformed into a magical place. The square was illuminated by warm lights, and the scent of Moroccan spices filled the air. We found a spot at a café and ordered mint tea, watching as the square came alive with even more energy. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration, soaking in the sights and sounds of Moroccan life.

Before dinner, we decided to try Bar Zerhoune for a quick drink.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Bar Zerhoune in Meknes, where local culture meets relaxation in a cozy setting.
The bar had a relaxed atmosphere and seemed to be a popular spot for both locals and tourists. We enjoyed a couple of local beers, chatting about our adventures and planning our final day in Meknes. It was a pleasant way to unwind before our final dinner in Meknes.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Riad Selma, drawn in by the promise of a panoramic view of Meknes.


Savor the authentic taste of Morocco at Restaurant Riad Selma, where tradition meets flavor in the heart of Meknes.
We weren't disappointed. The restaurant was located in a traditional Moroccan riad, and the terrace offered stunning views of the city. I savored a delightful couscous, while Jan enjoyed a flavorful tagine. The service was attentive and the atmosphere was relaxed, making it a perfect ending for our day.

As we walked back to our riad, the sounds of Meknes lulled us into a peaceful state. Today was a reminder of why we love to travel, of the joy of discovering new cultures and connecting with people from different backgrounds. It was a day of contrasts, of spiritual heights and lively squares, of quiet reflection and vibrant energy. And as I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the experiences we've shared on this Moroccan adventure.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Moroccan adventure. Our itinerary includes Al-Hadeem Square and La Grande Terrasse. We also plan to do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Parfois Meknes Label Gallery before heading to the airport. It’s bittersweet, as always, to say goodbye to a place that has captured our hearts. But I know we’ll carry the memories of Meknes with us, a reminder of the beauty and richness of Moroccan culture. I’m already looking forward to sharing our final day’s adventures with you all!