Hello everyone!
This morning I took a wonderful walk through some of Meknes' most emblematic places.
Starting my adventure at the historic gateway ‘Bab Belqari’, I passed through places steeped in history and culture, each with its own unique charm. This walk led me to discover ‘Sarij Souani’, then ‘Marrah’ street, the historic ‘Bab Marrah’ gateway, ‘Dar Makhzen’, and I continued along ‘Abderrahman Ibn Zidan’ boulevard. Finally, I ended my journey at the ‘Bab Bou Eimer’ gate and the ‘Rouamzine’ street. In this blog, I'm going to take you along with me on this long and beautiful walk!
The Belqari Gate, in Arabic ‘Bab Belqari’, is a monumental gateway that forms part of the ramparts of the Meknes medina. When I stood in front of this gate, I immediately felt the aura of history that emanates from its walls.
When you look closely, you can really appreciate the work that went into creating this gate.
The Belqari Gate is not only a beautiful structure, it is also steeped in history. It once served as the main entrance to the Meknes medina, allowing travellers and merchants to enter the city. As you pass under this arch, you can't help but think of all the people who have passed through this gateway over the centuries, each with their own stories and experiences.
The Belqari Gate continues to play an important role in the life of the city. It is a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike. The surrounding streets are often bustling with activity, with street vendors selling their wares ...
‘Sarij Souani’, also known as the Agdal Basin, is a huge water reservoir built in the 17th century during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. The reservoir was used to supply water to the city's royal gardens and fountains.
Sarij Souani is currently undergoing major restoration work. The aim of this work is to bring this historic site back to life by filling it with water as before. The restoration teams are working carefully to rehabilitate the existing structures and ensure that the pool is returned to its original state. It's an exciting initiative that aims to preserve this treasure for future generations.
When you visit Sarij Souani, you can't fail to stroll around the basin and enjoy the tranquillity of the place. Even with the work in progress, the charm of the place remains intact.
The Guarab sculpture is an artistic representation that blends modern and traditional elements. It stands near the pool, attracting visitors' attention with its captivating forms and meticulous detail. The sculpture symbolises the traditions and history of Meknes, while also providing a contemporary perspective. It is often interpreted as a tribute to the many inhabitants of the city who have contributed to its development over the centuries.
The Bab Marrah alleyway is one of the most authentic alleys in the Meknes medina. Walking down this street, I am immediately transported back in time. The old walls and doors decorated with traditional motifs create a unique atmosphere.
The ‘Bab Marrah’ gate is a historic gate that was part of the medina's ramparts. It is a magnificent example of Moroccan defensive architecture, with its thick walls and imposing arches. As you pass beneath it, you can't help but think of all the people who have passed through it over the centuries.
By exploring the street Bab Marrah and passing through Bab Marrah, you can really appreciate the rich heritage of Meknes. These places allow you to immerse yourself in the city's history and discover its traditions. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for an authentic experience, these places are sure to fascinate you.
Dar Makhzen, also known as the ‘House of Makhzen’, is a historic royal residence that was built in the 17th century during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. This majestic palace served as the official residence of the Moroccan sultans (kings) and is a symbol of the history and culture of Meknes.
Dar Makhzen is not only a beautiful structure, it is also steeped in history. It was the centre of government and power for many years, and has seen many sultans and rulers pass through its doors.
When exploring Dar Makhzen, you can't fail to stroll around the palace and enjoy the tranquillity of the place. Although the palace is now closed to the public, you can still admire its exterior beauty and imagine how important it was to the history of Meknes.
The large historic gate below is where you leave ‘Dar Makhzen’ and go to the boulevard ‘Abderrahman Ibn Zidan’.
I walked the length of this boulevard for around 20 minutes without getting bored, because as I walked there was a magnificent natural landscape stretching out in front of me, and in the distance I could see the city centre with its modern buildings standing out on the horizon.
Bab Bou Ameir! It is one of the many historic and iconic gates of Meknes, and it has its own charm. Located at the entrance of the medina, it stands as a relic of the city’s history and culture. It is part of the large walls built during the reign of Moulay Ismail.
Bab Bou Ameir is also distinguished by its impressive architecture. With its thick walls! It holds a special role for the people of Meknes, serving as a landmark and a meeting place. Many people enjoy gathering there before going for a stroll in the medina or exploring other historical marvels, like the granaries of Moulay Ismail or El Hedim Square, a bit further away.
Bab Bou Ameir is also often used as a starting point for tourists who want to dive into the heritage of Meknes.
Right next to this historic gate is the beginning of 'Rouamzine' Street!
This street is a true gem in the heart of the old medina, where every step immerses us in a past rich with history and mystery. It's like a small adventure unfolding between ancient walls and traditional shops, blending tradition and modernity in an authentic setting.
What gives Rouamzine Street its charm: its small craft shops. You can find everything here! It’s a lively street where past and present coexist in harmony.
I thank you immensely for reading, and I hope you enjoyed this post in which I tried to share my walk today through these historic spots in Meknes with you, and that you liked the photos I took!
Take care, and see you soon!
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Photos taken by my own phone (Samsung Galaxy A04s).
