It was built by Moulay Isma'il over the many decades of his reign between 1672 and 1727, when he made Meknes the of Morocco, and received occasional additions under later sultans.
Though some sources also cite a kasbah existing near or on the site of Place el-Hedim since the Almoravid period.
Sometimes they are studying knowledge that has no benefit in this world or the Next, just so that they can attain certain spurious objectives, such as getting in with oppressive rulers, gaining high position in society, using flattery to attain ranks, or even just to get food for their bellies.
Another unusual feature was the two large chambers facing each other on the southwestern and northeastern sides of the courtyard, one of which served as a prayer hall for women and the other as a library.
The mausoleum is still visited today by Moroccans seeking from Moulay Isma'il's tomb, in addition to being a significant tourist attraction in the city.
It consisted of a large central chamber surrounded by smaller rooms around which, in turn, was a large vaulted corridor which gave access to 15 domed chambers.