Overview
Take a trip to Rabat on your Morocco Vacation
Located on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River in Rabat, Morocco’s capital and third-largest city.
The city was formed in 1146 by the Almohad Dynasty, a Moroccan Berber-Muslim dynasty established in 1120. In the 17th century, Rabat and its neighbour Salé were united by Barbary pirates forming the Republic of Bou Regreg. The two ports served as bases for attacking ships causing much trouble for the European and Muslim authorities who tried to rein the pirates in. The Republic however did not collapse until 1818. When Morocco became a French protectorate, the capital was moved from Fes to Rabat where it remains.
When on Morocco vacations, the city of Rabat is one of the contrasts exhibiting a modern feel but in a historic setting. This was recognized at an international level when Rabat was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012. It was inscribed under the heading “Modern Capital and Historic City” because Rabat has managed to marry its new town built under the French Protectorate with older parts of the city, some of which date back to the 12th century.
The oldest mosque in the city was built in 1150 while Rabat’s most visible landmark, the Hassan Tower (the minaret of an unfinished mosque) dates to 1195. These ancient landmarks coexist alongside the new town, considered by many to be Africa’s most ambitious and complete urban project of the 20th century and a must to be included in a Morocco vacation package.
The oldest mosque in the city was built in 1150 while Rabat’s most visible landmark, the Hassan Tower (the minaret of an unfinished mosque) dates to 1195. These ancient landmarks coexist alongside the new town, considered by many to be Africa’s most ambitious and complete urban project of the 20th century and a must to be included in a Morocco vacation package.
At a Glance
Languages
Arabic, BerberCurrency
Moroccan Dirham (MAD)What do the experts say?
The country has a diverse cuisine that not only combines spices to build dishes, but is designed to complement local heritage and traditions. Make sure you try harira soup and a fragrant gladd of mint tea!
A riad is a traditional Moroccan houses or palaces with an interior courtyard/garden. They are very authentic and I recommend staying in one for a unique experience.<br>
I recommend experiencing a hammam, riding through the dunes on a camel, and spending the night in the desert. Along with other activities like souk shopping and cooking classes.
Old Rabat city
The kasbah of the Udayas
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