Meknès: The Historic “Versailles of Morocco”
Meknès became the capital of Morocco in 1673 under the reign of Mawlāy Ismāʿīl, one of the most prominent figures in the country’s history. He transformed the city into a royal capital, constructing grand palaces and magnificent mosques, which earned Meknès the nickname “Versailles of Morocco.” The city’s fortifications, including a massive city wall reinforced by four-cornered towers and adorned with nine elaborately ornamented gates, still stand today as a testament to its glorious past.
Today, Meknès serves as a bustling commercial center, drawing on the rich resources of the surrounding fertile agricultural region. The city plays a key role in the trading of local produce and crafts. It is also known for its market, offering exquisite embroidery and handwoven carpets, which are primarily crafted by Amazigh women from the Middle Atlas mountains. The unique artistry of these women has made Meknès a hub for those seeking authentic Moroccan textiles.
