Dec 3, 2007

The Golden Gallery.

The Golden Gallery-by Youssef Laamimi

Meknes

Things to See: Bab Mansour: Bab means "gate" or "door" in Arabic, and Bab Mansour is the largest and most striking of Meknes' many gates. It's directly across from Place Hedim, the medina's main square. Place Hedim: Recently redone with new brickwork, this square once rivaled Djemaa el Fna in Marrakech but is now significantly less exciting (though there are a few nice cafes and snack spots in which to people-watch). Heri es-Souani: You can catch a glimpse of the grandeur of Moulay Ismail at these granaries, and sit beside the enormous Agdal Basin. Meknes Royal Golf Course: Typically, those who wish to play here must be members, however with enough money (and clean-cut dress), it is often possible to enter. There is also a public cafe on the grounds. Medersa Bou Inania: A beautiful Qur'anic school. Dar Jamai: Now a museum (Musèe Dar Jamai in French), this old palace is located at the back of Place Hedim. It now houses the Museum of Moroccan Arts, which is currently exhibiting artifacts, jewels, and old copies of the Qur'an. Habs Qara:An huge underground prison where Moulay Ismail allegedly kept Christian prisoners. Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail : Although non-Muslims are not permitted to enter, they can view the tombs, which hold the body of Moulay Ismail and other relatives, from the entrance. Al masjid AlAdam: Meknes' largest and oldest standing mosque (note: Non-Muslims are not permitted entry).