Royal Cities of Morocco

Morocco has at various stages during its development held dominion over territories extending from Senegal to France, at one time holding sway over equally impressive empires on both sides of the Mediterranean. It played a crucial role in the evolution of Europe’s Renaissance and, via its Andalusian satellite, Cordoba, infusions of Arabian learning were passed into European culture. Its dynasties moved their capital according to personal inclination or movement of trade routes, encompassing in turn Marrakech, Fez, Meknes and Rabat.

The remarkably sited city of Fez is wedged in a valley, its houses climbing up the slope on either side – its medina is little changed since medieval times and surrounded by original gates and fortifications. The ancient walled city of Marrakech is a uniquely rewarding city of gardens, souks and palaces. Meknes is the capital of Moulay Ismail, a 17th-century Sultan who aimed to create a capital on a grand scale to match his contemporary, Louis XIV, the Sun King, whose daughter he asked to marry. Rabat, the country’s current capital, was founded in the 12th century and is known for its fine gateways, battlements, trees and flowers whilst Casablanca, that slightly mysterious city on the Atlantic coast, is best known as a great port.

Whilst many will connect Morocco with the hot sand of the desert, in fact it contains some of the most spectacular scenery in North Africa, ranging from the Atlantic coastline to the coniferous forests of the Middle Atlas – making travel between the Royal cities an additional pleasure. The hotels in Fez and Marrakech have been upgraded to a Moroccan 5-star standard.