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  • Day 9

    Imperial city of Meknes and Roman ruins

    September 28, 2017 in Morocco ⋅ ⛅ 27 °C

    Off at 8.45 once more, pausing only at the hotel entrance to buy the photos from the "official" photographers who make their living following tourists around and snap us as we go. Bought 2 today-Ted looked too miserable in most of them 😂 Weather better today and indeed was very hot at the Roman ruins at midday as we dutifully followed our guide but first it was Meknes, which had once or twice been the capital and is thus an "imperial city". We visited the Moulay Ismael royal stables where 12000 horses were stabled and the huge granaries needed for everyone. Then another impressive gateway-the Bab El Mansour opposite a much smaller but copy of Marrakesh's main square. As said, the Roman ruins were very hot but the local guide was brilliant and we put up with the sweltering sun as we listened to his pearls of wisdom. Lunch then on the outside terrace if a hotel overlooking Volubilis but this time a platter of meats-not very appetising! We didn't get back til 5ish but had to first visit the ceramic factory. Again, lovely, good quality stuff but £120 for a fruit bowl was too much after the silver teapot and how would I get it home?! We then stopped at Carrefour right next to the hotel to buy provisions for tomorrow's 7 hour train journey back to Marrakesh. Time for a quick swim then shower and tea at the pool bar.Read more