Global Treasures: Palenque

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1122

UPC: 879061007217

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Meknes is the monumental city of the four king's towns of Morocco, and its impressive gates and powerful walls surround the old town of Medina.

The 20-kilometre-long town wall is one the oldest relicts of the former sovereign of the Alaouits, Sultan Moulay Ismaíl, who was prone to larger-than-life ideals. Also, the great silo of the Heri and Dar El-Ma's building dates back to this time, the end of the 17th century. It was designed to guarantee an adequate supply of food for the 150,000 men of the sultan's army.

In the midst of the historic commercial district is one of the city's oldest buildings, the Medersa Bou Inania. The beautiful decor of its inner courtyard and walls fascinates with its overwhelming number of unusual artistic Majolika designs.

Not far away from the Medersa Bou Inania there is a further significant building, the Great Mosque.

There is much activity in the main streets and on the squares of Meknes, and the beautiful Bab Mansour Gate particularly attracts droves of visitors each day.

Even today, the monumental architecture of Meknes holds great importance for this royal city.