The Imperial Cities of Morocco include Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, and Rabat. These cities are collectively known as the imperial cities because, at various points in Morocco’s history, each one has served as the capital. Currently, Rabat holds the title of the capital of Morocco.
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The cities of Fez, Meknes, Marrakech, and Rabat, collectively known as the imperial cities, hold significant historical importance in Morocco. Throughout Morocco’s history, these cities have served as capitals, with Rabat currently holding the title as the capital of Morocco.
Fez, the oldest of the imperial cities, was established as the capital in the ninth century by Sultan Idriss II, a descendant of the Prophet Muhammad. Despite changes in rulers, Fez remained a pivotal city and served as the capital multiple times under different dynasties.
During the rule of the Almoravids in the 12th century, Marrakech became their capital, while Fez retained its importance as a cultural and economic center. The Almohads later established Rabat as their capital, but this was later replaced by Meknes during the reign of Moulay Ismael.
Under French colonial rule, which began in 1912, Rabat was reinstated as the capital of Morocco. This title has been maintained since the country gained independence. The imperial cities stand as a testament to Morocco’s rich history and cultural heritage, each with its own unique charm and significance.
Morocco Imperial Cities 1 Fes (Fez)
Fez, the most captivating of the imperial cities, boasts a grand scale with expansive walls stretching nearly ten miles. For the best views of the city, visitors flock to the Merenid tombs on the hillside. Fez is essentially three cities in one. The heart is Fez el-Bali, the medieval medina, where half of the city’s population resides, and where most tourists focus their exploration. Next is Fez el-Jdid, the new city (though “new” in Fez terms means late 13th century), home to the Mellah or old Jewish quarter. The third part, the modern Ville Nouvelle, built by the French during the colonial period, is often overlooked by visitors.
While mosques are not accessible to non-Muslims, it’s worth peeking through the entrance of Zaouia Moulay Idriss, located at the heart of the city. Fez boasts numerous architectural marvels, including the Medersa Bou Inania, an ancient and intricately decorated religious school surrounded by simple student cells. The recently opened Belghazi Museum is another highlight, showcasing its treasures within a 17th-century riad built around a serene courtyard garden.
However, the main draw for most visitors is the medina, with its labyrinthine alleyways. Here, horses and donkeys have the right of way as they navigate through the narrow streets, delivering goods to the small shops in the bustling open-air market. Everyday life unfolds amidst the maze-like streets, with each district housing its own communal bathhouse, bakery, and other necessities. Getting lost in the medina is all part of the adventure, with surprises waiting around every corner.check our Morocco Imperial cities tours
Morocco Imperial Cities 2 Marrakech
In addition to the iconic landmarks like the main square, the bustling souks, and the towering Koutoubia Mosque, Marrakesh holds many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Among these are the Saadian Tombs, the final resting place of 66 kings from the Saadian dynasty, tucked away from plain sight. Another hidden marvel is the Koubba el Baadiyin, one of the oldest structures in the city, believed to have once served as the ablutions pool for a nearby mosque. The Ibn Youssef Medersa is also a must-see, being the largest theological college in Morocco.
The Bahia Palace, built in the Alhambra style, is a testament to the wealth and power of its former owner, a slave who rose to prominence. Despite being devoid of furnishings, the palace showcases stunning 19th-century architecture on a grand scale. Nearby, Dar El Said, once a lavish palace, now houses a museum displaying artifacts and artwork.
Marrakesh is renowned for its lush gardens, with the Jardins Majorelle standing out as one of the finest. Originally created by a French painter, the gardens are now owned by Yves Saint-Laurent and offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Morocco Imperial Cities 3 Meknes
Meknes, in contrast to Fez, exudes a more laid-back atmosphere. While the medina is not the main attraction, the focal point of interest lies in the 17th-century imperial complex built by Moulay Ismael. This fortified city-within-a-city encompasses numerous palaces, mosques, dungeons, and gardens. Among the highlights are the dungeons, the royal stables housing grain silos that once stored enough food for the populace for a year, as well as accommodations for 12,000 horses. Another notable site is the Moulay Ismael mausoleum, a sacred place open to non-Muslims, which adds to the allure of Meknes.
Morocco Imperial Cities 4 Rabat
Another notable site in Rabat is the mausoleum of Mohammed V. Despite being the capital, Rabat is not as renowned as other Moroccan cities, although it boasts a rich history where ancient and modern elements seamlessly blend. This unique juxtaposition is evident in Rabat’s two most famous landmarks.
The Tour Hassan, commissioned by Yacoub el Mansour, who also designed the Giralda in Seville and the Koutoubia Tower in Marrakech, stands as a testament to medieval architecture. Originally intended as part of a grand mosque in the 12th century, only the tower remains today, with the remnants of its columns serving as reminders of its former glory. Adjacent to the Tour Hassan is the mausoleum of Mohammed V, grandfather of the current king. Initially, residents of Rabat were skeptical of this juxtaposition of old and new, but the mausoleum incorporates motifs from the ancient tower, resulting in a harmonious blend of architectural styles.
Another captivating aspect of Rabat is its coastal fortress quarter, which offers a stark contrast to the rest of the city. Enclosed by imposing ramparts, this quarter is characterized by clusters of small, blue and white homes with flat roofs, evoking a distinctively Mediterranean vibe. Exploring this ancient corner of Rabat provides visitors with a glimpse into a bygone era, offering a refreshing departure from the city’s modern ambiance.
Morocco Imperial Cities Do I need a guide?
Navigating the medinas can be a daunting task, with their narrow, winding streets and bustling crowds. In addition to the maze-like layout, visitors often find themselves bombarded by persistent stall-holders vying for their attention and business. These vendors will claim to offer the best, cheapest, or most unique goods in the market, creating a sense of overwhelm for unsuspecting tourists.
Hiring a guide can provide both protection from unwanted solicitation and ensure that you don’t miss out on the medina’s highlights. It’s crucial to negotiate the price upfront, as official guides, identifiable by their badges, adhere to the rates set by the tourist authority. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you can navigate the medinas with confidence, gaining insight into their rich history and cultural significance while avoiding the pitfalls of tourist traps.
I want to visualize one thing exotic
Exploring the medinas can be quite overwhelming due to their labyrinthine streets and bustling atmosphere. Along with the intricate layout, visitors often encounter persistent stall-holders competing for attention and sales. These vendors claim to offer the best deals and most unique products, which can leave tourists feeling inundated.
Hiring a guide can help shield you from unwanted solicitation while ensuring you don’t miss out on the medina’s highlights. It’s important to agree on the price upfront, as official guides, identifiable by their badges, follow the rates set by the tourist authority. With an experienced guide, you can confidently navigate the medinas, gaining insights into their rich history and cultural significance while avoiding tourist traps.
Morocco Imperial Cities Where to go shopping?
The most vibrant and bustling spots in the medinas are undoubtedly the souks, with Marrakech and Fez boasting some of the most extensive ones. Keep an eye out for exquisite ceramics, especially in Fez, where traditional blue and white pottery is crafted with precision. Mosaics and carpets are also prevalent, with carpet-making being a particularly revered art form. Even if you don’t make a purchase, you’ll likely leave the market with a newfound understanding of woven and knotted carpets.
When it comes to haggling, the key is to politely decline the initial price quoted and offer around half of that amount. From there, both the seller and buyer work towards a compromise, usually settling at around two-thirds of the original quote. Vendors are aware of Western tourists’ bargaining tactics and may initially quote prices much higher than reasonable. For significant purchases like carpets, expect to engage in negotiations over a glass of refreshing mint tea.
Before committing to a purchase, it’s advisable to browse around to gauge price variations. However, refrain from starting negotiations unless you’re genuinely interested in buying. For larger items, like carpets, expect to spend some time bargaining to reach a mutually agreeable price.
When is the best time to Visit Morocco’s Imperial Cities?
If you’re seeking to explore a country that’s unfortunately lacking in tourists, Morocco offers a unique experience. The daytime climate remains mild, even in winter, although nights can be quite chilly. The ideal time to visit the cities is in October, when the weather is warm but not uncomfortably hot for sightseeing.
Many travelers tend to avoid visiting Muslim countries during Ramadan, though there’s no substantial reason to do so. While some sights may close an hour earlier than usual, everything else operates as usual. Non-Muslims are welcome to eat, and hotels serve breakfast as usual. While some restaurants may close during meal times, evenings are often lively, as people stay up late to enjoy the limited hours during which they can eat and drink. This year, Ramadan begins in early November.
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Is Morocco Imperial Cities safe?
Overall, the people in the medinas are incredibly friendly, and they are eager to ensure that visitors enjoy their stay. However, women traveling alone may attract some curiosity, as this is considered uncommon, but they are no more likely to encounter harm in Morocco than anywhere else.
For an early imperial excursion, consider visiting the ruins of Volubilis, once the furthest outpost of the Roman Empire. Located a short drive from Meknes, Volubilis offers a captivating glimpse into the past and is an excellent place to spend a few hours.
The well-preserved ruins allow visitors to envision the former settlement, with most of the homes lining the main road, the Decumanus Maximus. At the end of this road stands a monument erected by the people of Volubilis in honor of Emperor Caracalla.
The heart of the city contains the remains of the forum, basilica, capitol, and public baths, with many buildings adorned with impressive mosaics. Notable among these are depictions of the Labors of Hercules and Orpheus with dolphins, elephants, and other animals. While guides are available at Volubilis, they may not be necessary if you have a good guidebook. The ruins are open daily from sunrise to sunset, inviting visitors to explore and immerse themselves in ancient history.
