The current capital of Morocco is Rabat, situated in the north of the country. This ancient city was not always the capital, however. As various dynasties rose and fell throughout the centuries, the seat of power moved between Fes, Marrakech, Meknes and Rabat.
All of these centers are now categorized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and for any traveler who has an interest in history, culture or architecture, a road trip to explore the Imperial Cities of Morocco is definitely a must!
About Fes
The oldest of the Imperial Cities is Fes – Islamic refugees from North Africa and Southern Europe were the first to settle here when the city was founded in the 9th century. Fes was the capital of the country several times, from the Idrisid Dynasty in the 9th century and until the Alaouite Dynasty which ended in 1912.
Fes is known for it’s still dynamic tannery industry, it’s stunning royal palace walls and doors, and the unique architecture of the beautiful minarets and domes found there. A view of the city-scape from the hills surrounding the city is something not to be missed!
About Marrakech
Marrakesh was first established as a settlement in 1071 and was the capital of the country during this period and again in the 16th and 17th centuries. Known as the ‘Red City’ Marrakech was, and still is, a bustling market hub for traders from Africa, Europe and the Middle East.
The ‘souks’ or markets in the Marrakesh medina are worth getting lost in, you’ll be able to find everything from traditional handicrafts (carpets, leather goods, jewelry, etc.), food, spices, clothing and furniture! Marrakech is also famous for it’s ancient historical sites, such as the Koutoubia Mosque and the Saadian Toombes.
About Meknes
Meknes was capital of Morocco for a relatively brief period, from 1672 to 1727. The sultan Ismail Ibn Sharif rebuilt and expanded the old kasbah and medina to the south, and built the walls around the city. The imposing Bab El Mansour gate, with it’s intricate decoration and huge wooden doors, is a picturesque site to behold here.
Not far from Meknes are the Roman ruins of Volubilis, which also contain evidence of the first Jewish settlers in the country, who may have arrived to escape persecution during the advent of Christianity in the Middle East.
About Rabat
Along the Atlantic Coastline, Rabat was originally designed as an Imperial City by the Alouite Sultan Muhammad Ibn Abdallah in the 18th century. However, he did not officially designate Rabat as the capital at that time, as he traveled often between Rabat, Fes and Marrakech.
Today, Rabat is Morocco’s second largest city and the administrative, financial and political centre. As well as the ancient Hassan Tower and the Mohamed V Mausoleum, the spacious tree-lined avenues and cool green areas in the city attract many visitors and tourists every year.
About an Imperial City Road Trip
For an introduction to Moroccan history, memorable shopping experiences exploring ancient souks and medinas, culinary adventures with the different tastes and spices of the cuisine of Morocco, and a tour of the magnificent landscapes of the country, an Imperial City Road Trip is a holiday that you will truly never forget!
Morocco - Kingdom of the West 