El Hedime Square

Place El Hedime marks the boundary between the medina and the imperial city of Moulay Ismaïl. Its name means "square of ruins", a reminder of the district razed in the 17th century to create this monumental space. A vast paved esplanade, it comes alive from morning to evening in a typically Meknassi atmosphere: street vendors, families strolling, musicians and storytellers perpetuate a centuries-old tradition. The ochre façades frame this urban theatre where locals and visitors mingle.

The square offers several points of interest: the Dar Jamai museum on one side, the entrance to the medina and its souks on the other, the monumental gate Bab Mansour nearby. People stroll here to observe local life, have tea on a terrace or start their visit of Meknes. In the evening, the lighting transforms the atmosphere and small restaurants offer their grills. An essential stop for anyone wanting to grasp the soul of this city with a more peaceful rhythm than Fes or Marrakech.