Meknes was named the Imperial Capital under the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail following his accession to the Sultanate of Morocco and before the Capital was relocated to Marrakesh.

The sultan turned Meknes into a impressive city in Spanish-Moorish style, surrounded by high walls with great doors.

Although it is a modern, vibrant city, it is quieter and more laid-back than the rest of the Imperial Cities.

It does have the same characteristics as the others with winding narrow streets in the Medina and exquisite historical buildings.