A visit to the stunning Bou Inania Madrasa, a gem of Meknes
An only five-minute walk from the vibrant El Hedime square, hidden in the narrow streets of the Medina, is located the wonderful Bou Inania Madrasa, in our opinion the top attraction of Meknes.
Just opposite the grand Mosque, the Medersa Bou Inania is a koranic school and long time ago it was a major centre of learning for followers of Islam.
It was built in the first half of 14th century during the reign of the Merenid (13th to 15th century) and completed in 1358 by Abu Inan Faris, the ninth Sultan of the Merinid dynasty.
It’s an authentic jewel of Islamic architecture with an exquisite interior design typical of the Merenid monuments.
It boasts a refined courtyard richly decorated with zellige tiles, carved olive wood, a detailed cedar ceiling and Quranic inscriptions on the decorative walls.
On the right, when you enter the courtyard, is located the school room with a deep mihrab, the niche that indicates the direction of Mecca, for natural amplification.
On the ground floor are also located the cells where students aged eight to 10 years once lived, whereas on the first floor you’ll find the small cells for older students and teachers.
Its roof also worth a quick visit for the beautiful view of the Medina that you can enjoy from the tiny terrace.
Not to be missed is also the ancient hammam of the Medersa with its yellow flaking plaster.
