Imperial Cities of Morocco

                                                                                         

The cities-Fez, Meknes, Marrakesh and Rabat are together known as the imperial cities of Morocco. These are the cities which at different times in history have been the country's capital. The oldest capital of Morocco is Fez and the current capital is Rabat. These four cities have been the main highlights throughout the history of Morocco. All the imperial cities allow you get a feel of history, culture, food and architecture of Morocco. These cities are the prime tourist attractions with the marvelous architecture and centers for the maintenance of traditional trades and crafts. Morocco Imperial Tour is one of the most popular tours among the tourists due to the following attractions in these cities:

Fez - The cultural and spiritual centre of Morocco
This oldest and the most exciting imperial city was founded by Moulay Idriss II and is among the Islam's holiest cities. Fez is divided into three parts: Fez el Bali (old Fez), Fez El Djedid (new Fez) and the modern Ville Nouvelle. You will find the streets of Fes el-Bali crowded with medersas (Islamic schools), leather tanneries, mosques and dye pits. Fez el Djedid is a beautiful place and is a home to the Mellah, or old Jewish quarter and fabulous gardens. In the French influenced Ville Nouvelle, you will find cafes, banks, post offices, hotels etc.

Meknes - The Versailles of Morocco
Meknes was the capital of Morocco under the rule of Moulay Ismail. This small and beautiful city is called the "Versailles of Morocco" as Moulay Ismail wanted it to be constructed as the most extravagant city in the whole Morocco. However, many buildings that were part of his grand scheme could not be completed, but Meknes is still considered as a historical jewel with a lot of historical monuments and beautiful architecture. The main attractions of Meknes are the royal palace, Bab Mansour (the largest gate of Meknes), Place Hedim (the medina's main square) and many more.

Marrakesh - The Red or Rose City of Morocco
Marrakesh is also referred to as the Red or Rose City of Morocco as the buildings in this city are painted in pink color. The city’s appealing pink walls, alleys and palaces are the prime attractions for the tourists. This beautiful city nestles at the foot of the Atlas Mountains that provide the city a charming look. The Red city of Morocco is also famous as the center of culture and trade. The places worth visiting in Marrakesh are the Majorelle gardens, Djemaa el-Fna (huge market square), Saadian Tombs, El Bahia Palace and more.

Rabat - The Capital of the Kingdom of Morocco
Rabat, the capital of Morocco has the royal palace and also the king's mausoleum. The mausoleum was built by the best craftsmen of that time and is open to non-Muslims also. Rabat is the second most important city of the country after Casablanca due to the existence of textile, food processing and construction industries, foreign embassies and tourism. This modern city is a home to many old world gems like Catacombs, Hassan Tower, Chellah necropolis, Kasbah of the Udayas and more.

About the author:
Kevin Smith has written many articles on various topics & this time writing article on Imperial Cities of Morocco. For more details about Imperial Cities of Morocco, please visit:http://www.travel-tomorocco.com
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