05/12/2024
Meknes: The City of a Hundred Minarets 🇲🇦❤️
Meknes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its immense historical and architectural significance, particularly during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail. Share please ❤️🙏 Here's a comprehensive list of its notable monuments:
1. Gates (Bab):
Bab Mansour: Renowned for its intricate mosaic work and grandeur.
Bab Lkhmis: A beautifully decorated gate with historic significance.
Bab Berda'in: Another stunning gateway leading to the Medina.
2. Religious Sites:
Bou Inania Madrasa: A fine example of Marinid architecture, rivaling its counterpart in Fez.
Grand Mosque of Meknes: Located in the Medina and central to the city’s Islamic heritage.
Zaouia of Moulay Idriss: A nearby shrine dedicated to the founder of the first Moroccan dynasty.
3. Palaces and Fortifications:
Dar Jamai: Once a royal palace, now a museum showcasing Moroccan art and crafts.
Dar El Makhzen: Sultan Moulay Ismail's grand palace.
Qara Prison: A mysterious underground prison with labyrinth-like passages.
Borj Belkari: A fortification showcasing military architecture.
4. Water and Storage Structures:
Heri es-Souani: Royal granaries and stables for housing the Sultan's horses.
Sehrij Souani: A vast water reservoir that provided water to the granaries and the city.
5. Archaeological and Historical Sites:
Volubilis: Ancient Roman ruins located near Meknes.
Moulay Idriss Zerhoun: A holy town and pilgrimage site near Meknes.
Medina of Meknes: A well-preserved example of traditional Moroccan urban design.
6. Squares and Public Spaces:
Place El Hedim: The central square, reminiscent of Jemaa el-Fnaa in Marrakech, used for gatherings and markets.
This extensive array of monuments truly cements Meknes as one of the most historically rich cities in Morocco, rivaling Fez and Marrakech. Its blend of Islamic, Roman, and Alaouite-era influences makes it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts. Share please 🙏🙏❤️ 🇲🇦
