Audio Guide of Dar al-Makhzen Palace

Currently, access to the interior of the palace itself is usually restricted due to administrative functions, but you can visit the Lalla Meryem Museum located within the complex. In general, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 15:00 to 18:00, although it is best to check locally.

Entrance to the park grounds and the outdoor areas is usually free. If you decide to enter the ethnographic museum located on the premises, the price is symbolic, around 10 or 20 Moroccan dirhams (approx. €1-2). It is a very affordable and culturally enriching experience.

To walk through the gardens, admire the exterior architecture of the walls, and visit the small museum, we recommend setting aside between 45 minutes and 1 hour. It is a perfect and relaxing stop on your itinerary through the city of Oujda.

This palace was built by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century to consolidate control over the eastern region of Morocco. It represents a vital example of the military and residential architecture of the Alaouite dynasty, serving as the historic heart of power in the city.

Spring (April-May) and autumn are ideal for avoiding Oujda's intense heat. We suggest going early in the morning to enjoy the soft light on the walls, or at sunset for a მშვიდful walk through the surrounding gardens.

Access may be limited due to the historic nature of the building, which includes cobbled streets and some steps in the museum. However, the gardens and the adjacent Lalla Meryem Park are mostly flat and easier to get around.

You are strategically located near the old Medina. Do not miss the imposing gate Bab Sidi Abdelwahab and the lively souk, where you can feel the true commercial and social essence of the city just a few steps from the palace.

Always carry cash in dirhams for the museum entrance and small purchases. In addition, we recommend downloading an IAudioguía audio guide to better understand the historical context, as signage inside the complex may be limited.