The smell of oriental spices, picturesque oases of green gardens and parks, the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, an extremely rich historical past - all this is the sultry African country of Morocco. Rabat is the capital and, in combination, one of the largest cities in the kingdom. Today it is the heart of the country, which is its political, administrative and cultural center.
The modern capital of Morocco was founded in the XII century. She played the role of a well-fortified, impregnable military post. It is not surprising that the heyday of Rabat falls precisely on the period of the holy war between Morocco and Spain. The walls of the city saw many battles and Moroccans always came out victorious.
Rabat began a hectic life under the Sultan Abd al-Mumen, this city was also loved by his grandson Yakub al-Mansur. The latter always in the capital saw a real bridgehead for the fight against the Spaniards. The city walls were built by simple clay workers, and the gates were cut out of stone. All buildings were built from shell rock, which is the main building material in Morocco. The capital is notable for its powerful fortress - Kasba Udaya. It allowed to protect the city from the warships of Portugal, Spain and England.
A mosque was built on the main street of the fortress; it is considered one of the oldest in the city. You can also see a beautiful garden with orange trees and flowers. Sultan Abd al-Mumen spent a lot of time in it, immersed in his thoughts and resting from work.
Sultan Yakub al-Mansour wanted the capital of Morocco to be famous as the owner of
the world's largest mosque. He planned to build a Hassan mosque in which his entire army could fit, and he himself was able to drive up the steps to the top on his horse, urging everyone to pray. His plans were not destined to be accomplished, since the mosque was only partially built when the sultan died. After his death, construction did not continue.
Today, the capital of Morocco is divided into two parts - the southern, more modern, and northern, which is also called Medina. The construction of the new part began only in 1912. Business and administrative quarters of the city are located in the eastern and northern parts. Closer to the coast are residential areas.
Two parts of the city are completely different from each other. Medina is the embodiment of the real east. Its streets are saturated with centuries-old history, legends are in the air. Only Muslims live here who zealously protect their traditions and continue to engage in the crafts of their great-grandfathers. It is in this region that carpets of amazing beauty are woven; this Moroccan miracle is known all over the world. They also knit laces in Medina, make silver and
copper dishes.In Medina is the king’s palace. For prayer, he leaves his residence every Friday at the Jamaa Ahel Fez mosque. This event is accompanied by a ceremony, many people gather who want to look at the ruler. The capital of Morocco has countless architectural and historical monuments that all tourists will be very curious to see. This colorful country will appeal to everyone, without exception, because where else can you admire the beautiful nature, get acquainted with eastern culture and swim in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean?