The Enigmatic Allure of Meknes

The city of Meknes, nestled in the north of Morocco, is a place where time seems to stand still. As I wandered through its ancient streets, I felt the weight of history pressing down upon me, much like the crumbling Soviet-era buildings I often explore. The air was thick with the scent of spices and the whispers of the past, drawing me deeper into its labyrinthine alleys.

Bab Mansour, the grand gate that leads into the old imperial city, stood before me like a sentinel of time. Its vaults and mosaic tiling were a testament to the city’s imperial past, a reminder of the grandeur that once was. I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the decaying remnants of the Soviet Union, where beauty and decay coexist in a haunting dance.

As I ventured further, the mausoleum of Sultan Moulay Ismaïl beckoned. The courtyards and fountains whispered stories of a bygone era, much like the forgotten corners of Eastern Europe that I so often explore. The echoes of history resonated within me, fueling my passion for uncovering the untold stories of the past.

The Hidden Gem of Volubilis

Leaving the city behind, I journeyed to Volubilis, a partly excavated Roman city that lay in ruins. The fertile agricultural area surrounding it reminded me of the vast expanses of Russia, where nature reclaims what man has abandoned. The city, once a thriving hub under Roman rule, now stood as a testament to the passage of time.

The basilica, temple, and triumphal arch were remnants of a civilization long gone, much like the Soviet-era structures I often find myself drawn to. The mosaic floors, though faded, still held a beauty that spoke of prosperity and ambition. As I walked among the ruins, I felt a connection to the past, a reminder of the impermanence of human endeavors.

Volubilis, like the cities I explore in Eastern Europe, is a place where history and decay intertwine. It is a reminder that even the mightiest empires fall, leaving behind only echoes of their former glory. The stories hidden within its walls are waiting to be uncovered, much like the forgotten tales of the Soviet Union.

Moulay Driss Zerhoun: A City of Mystique

My journey continued to Moulay Driss Zerhoun, a city perched high above the plains, much like the hidden gems I seek out in Moscow. The city, once forbidden to non-Muslims, now welcomes all who wish to explore its mysteries. Its labyrinth of stairs and alleys reminded me of the tangled streets of Eastern Europe, where every corner holds a secret waiting to be discovered.

The terraces offered a bird’s eye view of the city, the mausoleum, and the surrounding landscape. It was a sight that stirred something within me, much like the vistas of urban decay I often find myself captivated by. The city, with its rich history and cultural significance, was a place where the past and present coexisted in a delicate balance.

As I stood there, overlooking the city, I felt a sense of melancholy and wonder. The stories of Moulay Driss Zerhoun, like those of the Soviet-era cities I explore, are woven into the fabric of its streets. They are tales of resilience, of a people who have endured the passage of time and the changes it brings.

In the end, my journey through Meknes and its surroundings was a reminder of the beauty and fragility of history. It was a journey that resonated with my own explorations, a testament to the enduring allure of the past.