Meknes is one of the four imperial cities of Morocco, located in northern central Morocco and the sixth largest city by population in the kingdom. 

Founded in the 11th century by the Almoravids as a military settlement, Meknes became capital of Morocco under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672-1727), son of the founder of the Alaouite dynasty.

It was named after the architect, El-Mansour. It was completed 5 years after Moulay Ismail's death, in 1732. The design of the gate plays with Almohad patterns. It has zellij mosaics of excellent quality. The marble columns were taken from the Roman ruins of Volubilis. The gate itself is now used as an arts and crafts gallery; entry is by a side gate. This is the main gate between the Medina and Imperial City of Meknes. It is designed with Almohad patterns and some of Volubilis's columns were taken apart to build the wall.

Dar El Makhzen palace

It is sided by a 2 km-long corridor formed by two large walls. It was Moulay Ismail's official palace. The high walls around the palace separated the palace from the old medina.

It was built in the first period of 18th centry, but was destoried in the disastrous earthquake in 1775 surrounding Lisbon.

The barn was so extravagant and was designed to store the food for horses in the stable behind. 

The emperor loved horses very much at that time. The stable was so huge enough to raise around ten thousand horses. 

Agdal reservoir

It was built by Moulay Ismail. It measures 319*149 meters, with a depth of 2 m. It is reported the water in the reservoir was much enough to be drunk by the horses for one year.

Volubilis