As I have mentioned before, I will be traveling to Rabat, Morocco, this coming fall! I'm absolutely ecstatic, and I am excited about all the different sights and adventures I will be able to experience. After doing a little bit of research, here are some places I've found that I'm going to make visiting to a priority:
Kasbah of the Udayas
The Kasbah of the Udayas is a fortress, or citadel, in Rabat, located at the mouth of the Bou River opposite Salé. It was built during the reign of the Almohads, a Moroccan Berber Muslim movement founded in the 12th century. However, the Kasbah was abandoned in in 1199. It wasn't until the 17th century that it was revitalized with the arrival of thousands of Moriscos expelled from Spain, who went on to establish independence. Today, the Kasbah contains the oldest mosque in Rabat.
Hassan Tower
The Hassan Tower, or Tour Hassan, is the minaret of an incomplete mosque in Rabat. Its construction began in 1195, and was intended to be the largest minaret in the world, along with the mosque, also intended to be the world's largest. However, when Sultan Yacub al-Mansour died, the construction of the mosque was brought to a halt. The rest of the mosque was also left incomplete, with only the beginnings of several walls and some 200 columns being constructed. This landmark forms an important historical and tourist complex in Rabat.
Andalusian Gardens
The hideaway retreat of the Andalusian Gardens is a secluded park you can stroll through and get some fresh air on hot summer days. Despite the name, they were actually designed by a French landscape architect in the 20th century. It contains different water features and fountains, and many typical fragrances similar to those of the Alhambra. It often gives the impression of being abandoned, with its arches and structures in need of restoration. However, it is this decadence that gives this haven its special charm.
Chellah
Chellah, or Sala Colonia, is a medieval fortified necropolis located south of Rabat. Chellah has existed since pre-Christian times and houses a complex of ancient Roman architecture and medieval ruins. It is the most ancient human settlement on the mouth of the Bou Regreg Rier. Chellah was abandoned during the Almohad period as well, and then rebuilt later on by the Marinids.
Mausoleum of Mohamed V
The Mausoleum of Mohamed V is a historical building located on the opposite side of the Hassan Tower. It contains the tombs of the Moroccan king and his two sons, late King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. Its construction was completed in 1971. Hassan II was buried there following his death in 1999. This building is considered a masterpiece of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture, with its white silhouette. A reader of the Koran is often present, having his assigned seat.
