Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail

The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail on Boulevard Moulay Ismail in Meknès, Morocco, is the burial place of the Alaouite sultan who ruled from 1672 to 1727 and made Meknès his imperial capital. It is one of the few active Moroccan shrines that non-Muslims may enter, though access is limited to the first courtyards and the tomb antechamber rather than the tomb itself. Visitors pass through a series of quiet courtyards and gateways, with whitewashed walls, arches and fountains, before reaching the antechamber, where the walls are covered in zellige tilework, carved plaster and cedar, and a fountain stands in the centre. The tomb chamber lies beyond and can be glimpsed but not entered. The restrained, calm architecture contrasts with the sultan's reputation as a ruthless builder, and the site conveys the scale of his ambitions. Entry is free, with donations welcome, and the mausoleum is open daily from about 9:00 to 12:00 and 14:30 to 18:00, closed on Fridays. A visit takes 30 to 45 minutes. Morning, soon after opening, is the best time, when the courtyards are quiet and light enters the tilework; the afternoon session draws more tour groups. Visitors must remove shoes where indicated and dress modestly, and photography is usually permitted in the courtyards but may be restricted in the antechamber, so checking with the attendants is wise. The mausoleum is a short walk south from Bab Mansour along Boulevard Moulay Ismail, or a petit taxi ride of about 10 MAD from the medina, and it pairs naturally with the Royal Granaries (Heri es-Souani) and Place el-Hedim.