Rabat Maps

Rabat is the capital city of Morocco and the country's seventh-largest city, located on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the river Bou Regreg. The city serves as the national political and administrative center, hosting Morocco's parliament, royal residence, and all foreign embassies. As of 2021, the metropolitan population was approximately 2.2 million inhabitants, making it the second-largest metropolitan area in the country after Casablanca.

The city was founded in the 12th century by the Almohad ruler Abd al-Mu'min as a military fortress. The name "Rabat" comes from the Arabic word "Ribat," meaning fortress. During the 17th century, Rabat became a haven for Barbary pirates. The city significantly expanded under French colonial rule (1912-1956) and became the administrative capital of Morocco.

Modern Rabat is characterized by its unique blend of Islamic and French colonial architecture. The city's historic sites include the Kasbah of the Udayas, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 12th century, featuring iconic blue and white buildings and offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Hassan Tower, an incomplete minaret of what was intended to be the world's largest mosque, stands as another prominent landmark alongside the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, showcasing fine examples of Moroccan architecture.

The city's economy is primarily based on the service sector, tourism, and government administration. Rabat hosts several higher education institutions, including Mohammed V University, one of Morocco's largest public universities. The city's modern district features wide boulevards, public gardens, and contemporary infrastructure, while maintaining its historical charm in the old medina.

Notable cultural institutions include the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, the first major museum built in Morocco since its independence, and the Royal Palace, which, although not open to the public, remains an impressive architectural landmark. The city's medina, smaller than those in other Moroccan cities, contains traditional markets and craft shops. Rabat's climate is Mediterranean, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, with temperatures typically ranging from 8°C (46°F) in winter to 28°C (82°F) in summer.