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Although not its largest city, Rabat is Morocco's
capital and 'Royal City'. Known nowadays as the 'Washington' of
North Africa, because of its parks, boulevards, monuments, embassies
and government buildings, Rabat is also the seat of the Royal Family.
Not surprisingly, therefore, it is home to a great many bewitching
palaces, mosques and parks-all in the sensual North African style
that evokes visions of a thousand and one nights.
Situated on the estuary of a river, this white city
faces the Atlantic Ocean. This part of Morocco's coastline is marked
by endless stretches of white sandy beaches, where the cold water
and powerful tides make swimming hazardous, but make its waters
abound with sardines, mackerel, anchovy, tuna and shellfish. In
fact, the fishing town of Safi has the largest sardine port in the
world. Sardine vendors can be seen all over Morocco, whilst every
corner shop stocks canned sardines in a mildly spiced tomato sauce,
a delicious Moroccan speciality.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace, official residence of King Hassan II of Morocco,
is a sumptuous building constructed upon the ruins of an 18th century
palace.
Mohammed V Mausoleum
Construction on this royal mausoleum, dedicated to Sultan Mohammed
V-the man who led Morocco to independence-started in 1962. The imposing
structure of white marble was completed in 1967, providing a tangible
icon of post-independence Morocco.
Hassan Tower
Situated on the expansive square opposite the Mausoleum of Sultan
Mohammed V, the 44-metre tall Hassan Tower, which stretches out
above Rabat, is one of the country's national symbols.
Kasbah of the Oudayas
Still the old heart of Rabat, this ancient Kasbah is named after
the tribe who were sent here by Sultan Moulay Ishmail to defend
the city against Andalusian attacks.
Chellah Necropolis
Ruins meet nature in this 14th century necropolis overrun by trees,
plants and animals. A park and archaeological site at once, the
Chellah Necropolis occupies the site of the ancient Roman town of
Sala.
Mamora Forest
Here, within short distance to Rabat, 134,000 hectares of cork-oak
forest, pine groves, wild pear trees and eucalyptus offer an oasis
of peace where only the call of birds disturbs the tranquillity.
Potter's Village
A favourite with visitors, this is a real, living village dedicated
entirely to this age-old art. Ask for anything and the master craftsmen
will produce it with amazing speed and precision.
A
long strip of white sandy beach extends between Rabat and Casablanca,
interrupted only by little settlements and affluent resort towns.
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