Meknes

Meknes is a city in northern Morocco, the capital of the Meknès Prefecture in the Fès-Meknès region. It sits on the northern high plateau and serves as an administrative and commercial hub, connected by road and rail to major cities in the country. The city’s historic core blends Islamic architectural heritage with traditional markets and urban layouts that reflect its long-standing role as a regional center.

Historically, Meknes rose to prominence in the 17th century when Sultan Moulay Ismail made it the capital of Morocco and invested in extensive construction to create an imperial city. The legacy of that era includes monumental gates, palaces, and granaries. The best known landmark is Bab Mansour, celebrated as one of Morocco’s finest gates, alongside the royal palace complex known as Dar el Makhzen and the Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail. The medina remains a living center for mosques, fountains, and crafts.

The region around Meknes is notable for its Roman ruins at Volubilis, a well-preserved archaeological site that lies nearby and is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding countryside supports olive and cereal farming, making agriculture an important part of the local economy alongside tourism and traditional crafts.

Today Meknes functions as a regional center for administration and commerce, with a growing service sector and educational institutions. It remains a primary base for visitors exploring Morocco’s imperial history and the nearby Volubilis site.