Meknes city was founded by Moulay ar-Rachid, and then his successor Sultan Moulay Ismail made it as the capital of reign during the reign of Alaouite Dynasty. The Sultan’s strategy to keep reigning for almost 52 years was by making sure of protecting the whole city. In so doing, he has built nearly 44km of fortified walls to keep rebellions out of medina, and then built a big water basin (Sahrij Souani) as his enemies would cut his water sources.
The most historical places to visit in Meknes are: Place el-Hedim( the heart of the Medina), Bab Mansour Gate, Sahrij Souani water basin, Mausoleum Moulay Ismail, Dar Jamai, and the mystical underground Qara prison.