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Rabat

Rabat-Travel-Guide-Travel-S-Helper

Rabat, the capital of Morocco, is a locale where history, culture, and modernity intersect. Rabat serves as the political nucleus of Morocco and is a dynamic urban hub, housing around 580,000 residents in its urban core and over 1.2 million in its metropolitan area. Serving as the capital of the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra administrative region, it is vital to the nation’s governance and development.

Located on the Atlantic Ocean, near the confluence of the Bou Regreg River, Rabat confronts its counterpart, Salé. This strategic location has historically rendered Rabat a prominent port and a hub of commerce and cultural interaction. The city’s beginnings trace to the 12th century, established by the Almohads, a Berber Muslim dynasty significant in the history of North Africa and Spain. The Almohads founded Rabat as a fortified military settlement, establishing the groundwork for its subsequent development.

The history of Rabat is characterized by phases of affluence and deterioration. Subsequent to its initial expansion under the Almohads, the city underwent an extended phase of stagnation. In the 17th century, it became infamous as a refuge for Barbary pirates, who exploited its strategic position to conduct raids in the Mediterranean. This period introduced an element of mystery and adventure to Rabat’s historical account.

The city’s contemporary development commenced in the early 20th century when the French instituted a protectorate over Morocco in 1912. Rabat was designated as the administrative center, a choice that profoundly impacted its development. The remnants of French colonial architecture and urban planning from this era are still apparent in the city’s configuration and structures. Upon Morocco’s independence in 1955, Rabat was appointed as the capital, so establishing its role as the political and administrative center of the country.

Currently, Rabat, in conjunction with Temara and Salé, constitutes a conurbation exceeding 1.8 million inhabitants. Notwithstanding obstacles like silt-related problems impacting its waterways, Rabat has been acknowledged for its cultural and historical importance. In 2013, it was featured in CNN’s “Top Travel Destinations,” underscoring its allure to global travelers. Rabat, one of Morocco’s four Imperial cities, possesses a rich legacy, with its medina recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city is well-connected, accessible by train through the ONCF network and by air via the adjacent Rabat–Salé Airport. Rabat, as an administrative city, boasts various shopping districts and residential zones, each possessing distinct character and allure.

The urban geography of Rabat is varied, featuring districts that embody a spectrum of social and economic backgrounds. The city’s core consists of three primary components: the Medina, the Oudayas, and Hassan, all situated adjacent to the Bou Regreg and the Atlantic Ocean. These regions are abundant in history, showcasing traditional markets, historic architecture, and cultural monuments.

To the west, a succession of neighborhoods extends along the waterfront. Adjacent to the city ramparts are the historic districts of Quartier l’Océan and Quartier les Orangers. Beyond these areas are primarily working-class districts, including Diour Jamaa, Akkari, Yacoub El Mansour, Massira, and Hay el Fath. These regions exemplify the city’s vibrant social structure, with Hay el Fath transforming into a middle-class enclave.

To the east, adjacent to the Bouregreg, is the Youssoufia region, inhabited by working and middle-class populations. Neighborhoods such as Mabella, Taqaddoum, and Hay Nahda predominantly comprise middle-class people, but Aviation and Rommani serve both medium and upper-middle-class populations.

Situated between the eastern and western axes, extending from north to south, are three principal neighborhoods that vary from middle class to affluent: Agdal, Hay Riad, and Souissi. Agdal is a vibrant amalgamation of residential and business structures, primarily occupied by the upper-middle class. Hay Riad, recognized for its opulent mansions, has experienced substantial growth throughout the 2000s. Souissi, distinguished by opulent houses and embassies, is an affluent residential neighborhood.

On the outside of Souissi, sparsely populated areas have expansive private residences, providing a more isolated lifestyle while remaining integrated into the city’s dynamic environment.

Moroccan Dirham (MAD)

Currency

12th century

Founded

/

Calling code

580,000

Population

117 km2 (45.17 sq mi)

Area

Arabic

Official language

75 meters (246 feet)

Elevation

UTC+1 (CET)

Time zone

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