Rabat is the capital of Morocco and its seventh largest city. It is also the capital of the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra administrative region. The city is located on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the river Bou Regreg.
On the facing shore of the river lies Salé, Rabat's bedroom community.
In 2022, the city has a population of approximately 1.9 million people and is the political and administrative center of the country. Rabat is also the headquarters of the Moroccan armed forces.
Together with Temara the cities account for a combined metropolitan population of over 2.8 million.
Rabat is one of Morocco's four Imperial Cities
Many masterpieces decorate its streets and squares. Visit the Kasbah des Oudayas which is a majestic and splendid architecture embellished by the surrounding gardens.
Not far from the walls, stand the imposing walls of the Chellah ; a necropolis from the time of the Merinids. Crossing the walls is like entering another world ; walk among ancient vestiges, gardens and storks. Rabat is also a modern eco-responsible capital with its green spaces. Beautiful parks await you, such as the botanical test garden or the Exotic Gardens of Bouknadel which is a few kilometres from the city.
Rabat boasts an outstanding coastline ; on the Atlantic Ocean shores, it has kilometres of well equipped beaches that lead to the neighbouring city of Casablanca. With its modern infrastructures and various festivals, Rabat is a living city. Airport, tram, shopping centres, cafés and restaurants, all the amenities are within your reach.
Revel in bustling vibes of music that Rabat celebrates like no other city ; from Mawazine, to Jazz au Chellah and many others that fill the atmosphere with sounds
History of Rabat
Rabat has a fascinating history dating back to the 8th century BC. The city was first settled by the Phoenicians and later became a major trading hub for the Romans. In the 8th century, the Arabs conquered Rabat and it became the capital of the Moroccan kingdom. The city has a long and rich history, with many interesting sights to see and things to learn.
In ancient times, the area that is now the modern capital city of Rabat was settled by the Phoenicians and later became a major center of the Roman Empire.
The city was first founded by the Almohads, a Berber dynasty, and served as their capital. Later, it was conquered by the Marinids, another Berber dynasty, and became their capital as well. In the 16th century, Rabat was conquered by the Ottoman Empire and became a part of their empire. However, the city was later returned to Morocco in the early 20th century. Today, Rabat is a modern city with a thriving economy and a rich culture.
The city has a long history of art, culture, and politics. Today, Rabat is a modern city with a thriving economy and a rich cultural heritage.
Sights and attractions in Rabat
The city is home to many interesting sights and attractions, including the Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and the medina. Visitors are welcome stroll through the picturesque Andalusian Gardens.
Rabat is a great place to visit for history lovers, as well as those who enjoy exploring new cultures.
Rabat, the capital of Morocco, is a city with a rich history. This is evident in the stones used to decorate its streets, which give the city a charming appearance.
UNESCO has recognized Rabat as a modern capital and historic city. One of the most notable landmarks in Rabat is Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret that has been standing for over eight centuries.
At the base of the tower is an esplanade and the Mohamed V mausoleum. The mausoleum is more than just a burial site; it is also a tribute to Arabic-Islamic art. It is carved from white onyx and adorned with marble, plaster, and delicately carved woodwork. Another notable site in Rabat is the Chellah, an ancient village with some impressive remaining vestiges.
Visitors can stroll through the enormous gate and explore the archaeological site inside the walls. Finally, be sure to visit the Kasbah of the Udayas. This is a beautiful ancient fortress with gardens and art galleries. You can relax on the patio of Café Maure, sip a mint tea, and enjoy some Moroccan cookies.
The rich cultural heritage of Rabat
Rabat is a city rich in high places and monuments, as well as in intangible heritage. The rbati handicraft is the staple of this city, and in the lively medina, time seems to stand still. From father to son, craftsmen work there on fabrics, leather, gold and silver jewellery, not forgetting the famous rbati carpet, which is a masterpiece of finesse and harmony.
Not far away, in Sale, pottery, ironwork and basketry are making the fame of this region, to which a whole complex is dedicated.
The city also boasts unique festivals. Renowned as a World festival, Mawazine is held where free concerts take place, inviting the biggest national and international stars, to share memorable moments with tens of thousands of spectators.
All year round, the capital of Morocco hums to the beat of world music ; with tunes from Andalusia and the swing of jazz orchestras in major events. In Rabat, the heritage is rich. It’s where culture and passion meet.
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