While often overshadowed by the tourist hubs of Marrakech and Fes, Morocco's capital city, Rabat, is a hidden gem that offers a more relaxed and tranquil experience. As one of the country's four imperial cities, Rabat is rich in history but also boasts a clean, modern feel with its palm-lined boulevards and coastal setting. It's a city of fascinating contrasts, seamlessly blending past and present.
Explore the Kasbah of the Udayas
The Kasbah of the Udayas is arguably Rabat's most beautiful attraction. This 12th-century fortress is perched on a cliff at the mouth of the Bou Regreg river, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Inside its fortified walls, you'll find a charming neighborhood of narrow, winding streets lined with picturesque blue-and-white houses. It's a peaceful place to wander, get lost, and enjoy a mint tea at the scenic Café Maure.
Visit the Hassan Tower and Mausoleum
The iconic Hassan Tower is the unfinished minaret of a mosque that was intended to be the largest in the world. Commissioned in the 12th century by Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour, construction was halted upon his death, leaving the 44-meter (144 ft) tower and a forest of stone pillars. It remains a powerful and impressive landmark.
On the same grounds lies the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Alaouite architecture. It contains the tombs of the Moroccan king and his two sons. The interior is lavishly decorated with zellige tilework, carved plaster, and a magnificent marble tomb, guarded by royal guards in traditional dress.
Discover the Chellah Necropolis
Just outside the city walls lies the Chellah, a fascinating and atmospheric historical site. It began as a pre-Islamic Roman settlement before being converted into a royal necropolis by the Marinid dynasty in the 14th century. Today, it's a tranquil garden of Roman ruins and Islamic tombs, overgrown with wildflowers and inhabited by a large colony of storks that nest atop the ancient minaret.
Why Visit Rabat?
Rabat offers a calmer, more authentic Moroccan urban experience. It's less crowded than other major cities, making it a pleasant place to explore historic sites without the hassle. Its blend of important historical landmarks and modern capital-city polish makes it a unique and worthwhile destination on any Moroccan itinerary.