Meknes, based at the foothills of the Middle-Atlas, is Morocco’s smallest imperial city. It was a military settlement in the 11th century, and was the capital of Sultan Moulay Ismaïl, founder of the Alawite dynasty from 1672 to 1727. The architecture was Spanish-Moorish. The fusion of European and Islamic styles of the 17th century are visible even today.

Meknes is indeed a good bargain holiday destination. The ancient medina is the centre point of the city. Its narrow alleys and souks (markets) lead to the El-Hdim Square. The medina, very well preserved, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It portrays the local culture through the storytellers, snake charmers, musicians and medical practitioners.

Sultan Moulay Ismaïl’s mausoleum is an architectural beauty. Bab Mansour is a gate with marble pillars, carved stucco and spectacular coloured tiles. Nejjarin Mosque, dating 10th century and the Medersa Bou Inania, the school for the study of the Koran, stand close to each other. The Medersa has a great view of the mosque from its roof terrace.

Located a little away from the city are the ruins of the roman city of Volubilis. Its rich mosaic and lack of tourist make it a welcome site to visit. The best seasons to visit Morocco are spring or autumn. Meknes offers a good bargain holiday.