Discovering Fez and Meknes: Morocco’s Historic Heartlands
Explore Morocco’s rich tapestry by traveling to Fez and Meknes, two of its captivating cities that boast UNESCO World Heritage sites. Both offer ancient traditions, stunning architecture and vibrant cultures – must-visit locations for any traveler!
Fez, known for being Morocco’s spiritual heart, is an oasis where time seems to stand still. Wander along its winding streets within its medina (Fes el-Bali), one of the world’s oldest urban pedestrian zones and home to souks, mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools), each telling its own unique tale.
Architectural Wonders Al Quaraouiyine University was founded in 859 AD and remains one of the oldest continuously operating universities worldwide. Nearby Bou Inania Madrasa features beautiful Marinid architecture with intricate stucco patterns, intricate tile work and exquisite wooden details carved by hand – true architectural masterpieces both.
Fez is home to artisans and craftspeople of every stripe. Explore its rich cultural riches at Chouara Tannery, where leather dyeing remains true to ancient techniques unchanged for centuries; or head for Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts housed within an elegant restored caravanserai which provides insight into Morocco’s woodworking tradition.
Fez is home to many sacred sites, like the Zaouia of Moulay Idriss II which honors Fez’s founder. Additionally, Karaouine Mosque with its peaceful courtyards and impressive minaret is another noteworthy spiritual landmark worth discovering in Fez.
Meknes Revel in Meknes
Just an hour away from Fez lies Meknes, Morocco’s “Versailles.” As imperial capital under Sultan Moulay Ismail who designed it into an impressive city of palaces, gardens and monuments. It remains a captivating travel destination today!
Start exploring Morocco at Bab Mansour, one of its most iconic gates known for its grand scale and intricate decorations, followed by Moulay Ismail Mausoleum which gives visitors a peek into Alaouite opulence.
Historic Sites
Meknes’ Royal Stables were constructed for Sultan Abdalla IV to house 12,000 horses that belonged to his kingdom, representing Meknes’ former glory and serving as an example of engineering and architectural prowess. Additionally, Heri es-Souani features impressive engineering prowess for stables as part of its complex of granaries and stables.
Cultural Experiences
Meknes’ medina is an exciting hub of activity where you can discover vibrant markets and sample regional delicacies. Dar Jamai Museum houses in an exquisite 19th-century palace features stunning displays of Moroccan ceramics, textiles and jewelry from around Morocco – as well as being home to one of its premier museum collections – Dar Jamai is located here as well!
Meknes is known for its picturesque countryside surroundings, from the Middle Atlas Mountains and Sais Plain with their fertile soil to vineyards nearby. Just outside Meknes lies Volubilis’ ancient Roman ruins – offering visitors an extraordinary glimpse of Moroccan history!
Journey Back Through Time
Fez and Meknes offer visitors an unrivaled opportunity to immerse themselves in Morocco’s rich cultural legacy, from exploring Fez’s winding medina streets or marveling at Meknes’ grand architecture – these cities promise an extraordinary journey back through time!