October 12, 2023
Today we are exploring the historical sites of Rabat, Morocco’s coastal capital.
Rabat’s rich history stretches back to the 12th century, a unique legacy recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2012. As one of Morocco’s four imperial capitals and the country’s administrative center, the city expanded within the walls of a fortified town founded by the Almohad dynasty during their conquest of North Africa. Shaped by a multitude of rich influences, Rabat intrigues with stories of French artists, Moorish exiles and legendary corsairs who settled here.
Royal Palace in Rabat is one of 4 Royal palaces in Morocco. Mohamed IV built it in 1864. We could not go in but the guards outside allowed us to photograph them. Walking to the palace we passed by the Royal Golf course. Wish I could of played a round!!!
Hassan Tower, the minaret of an incomplete mosque that was originally intended to be the world’s largest. Construction started in 1195 and then came to a halt in 1199 after Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour passed away. There were beautiful views of the Atlantic from the top of the mosque.
Cats are everywhere and are an inherent part of Moroccan culture & everyday life, living harmoniously with the people of the country. The reason stems from Islamic beliefs, which have made them ubiquitous across the Muslim world.
Mausoleum of Mohammed V he Mausoleum of Mohammed V is a mausoleum located across from the Hassan Tower in Rabat, Morocco. It contains the tombs of the Moroccan king Mohammed V and his two sons, late King Hassan II and Prince Abdall. Outside the gate are guards on horses! The door guards allow you to take pictures with them so of course I had to do it! Inside a person continually reads the Koran adding to the spiritual experience of visiting the mausoleum.
The Kasbah of the Udayas, was built in the mid-12th-century and includes garden’s that are referred to as heaven and hell. Trust me that I stayed on the heaven side. No tempting fate!!
Our last stop of the day was at a metal working shop where they create intricate designs by creating the design by carving groves in the metal then using a hammer drive thin silver thread into the groves. Loved the elephant but no he is not coming home with me.
It was long day of exploring Rabat but I am really enjoying learning about this magical county.
It is humbling to struggle with the steps that are everywhere and the eye issue is causing me to have depth perception issue but I have been so blessed with my fellow travelers having my back and offering a arm without asking and always a smile. I am so blessed!!
