Rabat is a fascinating mix of traditional Moroccan culture with a modern new town and a wealth of attractions. The city is a great place to experience all that Morocco has to offer, whether you want to explore its rich Islamic and French colonial past or relax on the sandy beaches by the Bouregreg River.
Kasbah des Oudayas
Kasbah des Oudaias is an iconic attraction of Rabat, one of the city’s most historic and beautiful sights. Its grand gateway and sky-high walls make it a stunning place to visit.
Located on the mouth of the Bou Regreg river, Kasbah des Oudaias was built in the 12th century by the Almohads as a fortification to protect Rabat from pirates. It’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a must-visit for history and architectural enthusiasts.
It’s a fascinating walled city awash with blues and whites, surrounded by towers and dotted with dozens of tiny alleys. It’s a delight to walk through, especially when you get off the main road and into the narrower streets lined with snow-white and cobalt-blue houses with small barred windows and monstrous ornate doors.
As you explore the town, be sure to stop in at the Andalucian Gardens, which are filled with brightly coloured flowers and are a treat to wander through. It’s also worth visiting the Oudaias Museum, which is housed in a 17th-century palace and features a rich collection of Moroccan art.
Hassan Tower
Hassan Tower, one of Morocco’s most historic monuments, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a majestic minaret almost a thousand years old.
It was originally built as a minaret of an unfinished mosque, which Caliph Abu Yusuf Yaqub al-Mansur started in 1195. But after he died, the project was abandoned.
The Tower is a beautiful piece of history and it should be on your list to see in Rabat. It’s also a great way to experience the city and its unique architecture.
In addition to the tower, there are other ruins of ancient mosques to explore in Rabat. The Mausoleum of Mohammed V, for example, is a magnificent place to visit where you can learn about Moroccan history.
Musee Mohammed VI d’art modern et contemporain
Rabat is a stunning city and it’s home to many beautiful museums that you should not miss. Whether you’re interested in modern art or history, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most impressive museums in Rabat is Musee Mohammed VI d’art modern et contemporain. This is the first museum in Morocco dedicated to contemporary art, and it opened in 2014.
The MMVI is one of fourteen museums of the National Foundation for Museums of Morocco and it curates Moroccan and international art. Its three floors feature a permanent collection, temporary exhibitions, and educational programming.
Located in the heart of Rabat’s medina, this museum is a must-see. In addition to its impressive collection of Moroccan and international artworks, the museum also offers a library, an auditorium, and workshops.
The Chellah
One of the most intriguing places to see and do in Rabat is The Chellah. This ancient Roman ruins necropolis is the site of several tombs and fortress ruins, making it a great spot to soak in the city’s history.
- The necropolis is also the place where many music concerts and cultural events are held. So it’s an ideal place for a day out or an evening of dancing to groovy Moroccan tunes!
- This museum is a must-see for anyone who is a fan of Morocco’s modern art movement. It’s impressively renovated and features artworks from the country’s top artists.
- It’s also worth visiting if you’re a fan of Arabic-Islamic art. The Mohamed V mausoleum is a spectacular example of this style, with white onyx and marble adorning the walls.
