Rabat Morocco

Rabat Morocco

GTR-DVD-1037 - 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 countrys historic past and its former sovereigns including the Mausoleum of Mohammed The Fifth.Opposite the Mausoleum is one of the citys best-known landmarks, the Tour Hassan that rises 44 metres into the sky.

In the picturesque quarter of the Kasbah Des Ordains with its whitewashed houses and sky-blue doors and window frames is the citys oldest mosque.

When Marrakech became the countrys 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 citys 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.