Rabat was once the centre of power of the Almohades and today it is the capital of Morocco and the government headquarters of King Mohammed The Sixth. The majority of its buildings are linked to the country's historic past and its former sovereigns including the Mausoleum of Mohammed The Fifth. Opposite the Mausoleum is one of the city's best-known landmarks, the Tour Hassan that rises 44 metres into the sky.

In the picturesque quarter of the Kasbah Des Oudaias with its whitewashed houses and sky-blue doors and window frames is the city's oldest mosque.

When Marrakech became the country's capital city, Rabat gradually fell into decline until when, in 1609, Andalusian Muslims and Jews settled here. An increasing number of people inhabited the Kasbah.

The administrative area and likewise named parade ground of Méchouar in the south west of the town is part of the Cité Royale, a town within a town.

Beyond the city's defensive walls, the ancient ruins of Chellah are a reminder of both Pre-Christian and Pre-Islamic times. During the 3rd century B.C. the Carthaginians built their first trading establishment here that was later extended and became the famous Roman harbour of Sala.

Due to its rich history, architecture and unique ambience, each year this royal city at the mouth of the Bou Regreg enchants thousands of visitors from all over the world.

Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Fathallah Oualalou,
Maire de Rabat