Meknes is a real treasure trove of fascinating places to see and visit.
A “caleche” (horse and carriage) trip is well worth doing. You’ll be driven round the old part of Meknes in a traditional horse-drawn carriage where you’ll be able to see and take in the sights that make Meknes famous; the Imperial Qasbah and Palace, the ancient prisons, the Mosque of Moulay Ismail, the Royal stables, Sahrij Souné (reservoir built to send water to the stables), Bab Lakhmis, the Jewish Quarter and back to the L’Hdim square.
A guided tour of the Medina (old town) is also highly recommended. You can visit the numerous “Souks” or markets and experience the atmosphere and bustle of everyday life in Morocco. Meknes is still very much a working town and is proud of its craftsmanship and creativity. Again, you can experience the real Morocco with a trip to the blacksmiths, carpenters, furniture and tent makers, instrument makers and potters, all contained in a couple of streets.
The Medina of Meknes is famous for its historic sights including; its museums and exhibitions; the numerous mosques and minarets including the “Grande Mosquee” that dominates the middle of the Medina and has thirteen doors; the mausoleum; the old Koranic school “Bou Anania” with its magnificent bronze door and the souks and “fondouqs” (small covered markets, each with its speciality), that have kept their diversity, atmosphere and authenticity.
Standing opposite the L’Hdim square on the edge of the Medina is the magnificent gate “Bab Mansour”. Moulay Ismail started its construction that was later finished by his son. The immense wall that encloses the Medina and surrounding area was also built by Moulay Ismail, has eleven doors and is rumoured to stretch right to Marrekesh! Recently restored, the wall has many gates built into it of which Bab Mansour is the most famous.
The L’Hdim square itself is a beehive of activity. Its covered market is huge and sells most items of food, spices and wicker baskets. In the evenings, the food stalls come out, along with the story-tellers, traditional medicine physicians, musicians and a large number of Meknessi who themselves come to enjoy the unique and authentic atmosphere of L’Hdim.