Rabat and the Moroccan Royalty

Rabat is one of Morocco’s imperial cities and the capital of Morocco, where Moroccan royalty has shaped the nation’s history and identity. A city steeped in royal heritage with the Royal Palace, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and many other attractions connected to Moroccan royalty. However, Rabat which is less spoken about than Marrakech and Fes offers a much more calm, hustle-free, and welcoming atmosphere than any other city of Morocco. The Chellah excavation site, Oudaias Kasbah, and Bou Regreg are some of the main attractions that may catch your attention. Let’s look at some of the other top attractions.

• • A Walk Through Rabat’s Kasbah: Moroccan Royalty’s Fortress

    The Kasbah also served as a strategic fortress for Moroccan royalty throughout the centuries. Being one of the tops on the visiting list, Kasbah’s 11th-century fortress walls hide a neighborhood village filled with Andalusian-style houses. With its slim white and blue lanes, this could be the perfect spot for your selfies! While Andalusian Gardens lies at the south end of Kasbah the north end offers a panoramic view of the Atlantic ocean. The ancient Bab Ouidaia gateway leads way to the oldest mosque in Rabat, the “Kasbah Mosque”.

  • The Hassan Tower: Moroccan Royalty’s Ambitious Vision

    This ambitious project by Moroccan royalty envisioned Hassan Tower as the world’s biggest, followed by a mosque. Ruler Yacoub al-Mansour led the project. Situated in a manicured garden, the unfinished tower was built by the Almohads. With the death of the ruler in 1150, the constructions stopped leaving only the 45-meter-high Hassan tower. The carvings in the tower say a lot about what the ruler had in mind at the time of its construction.

• The Mausoleum of Mohammed V

  King Mohammed V returned from exile in Madagascar. He gathered thousands of Moroccans to thank God for gaining independence. This is the same place where the Mausoleum of Mohammed V is located along with his and his son King Hassan II’s tombs. The marble tomb features resplendent zellige tilework. However, only Muslims can enter” or “the site permits only Muslims to enter the adjoining mosque for a better view. But you can definitely get a great view from the terrace located above the Mausoleum’s tomb chamber. Remember to dress accordingly covering shoulders and knees before you visit this place.

• The Museum of Contemporary Arts: Morocco’s Royal Cultural Legacy

  If you are into arts Mohammed VI museum of contemporary arts is where Morocco’s modern art movement is. The building itself dates back to the French colonials days. And the permanent collection of arts it contains dates back from mid 20th century till today. The museum occasionally hosts temporary exhibitions. These feature both local and international artists. So, If you happen to visit at the right time, you will be lucky to attend one.

If you are a beach lover, Bouznika Plage will offer the best beaches for a swim and sunbathing. But if you just wish to sit and chill, there are plenty of cafes and sun loungers in the area to choose from!