Royal Palace of Rabat
Rabat-Salé-Kénitra
The Royal Palace of Rabat, known locally as Dar al-Makhzen, serves as the primary official residence of the King of Morocco. Located in the commune of Touarga, a district enclosed by historic walls, the palace is fronted by a large mechouar, or public parade ground, surrounded by lush gardens and the Ahl Fas Mosque. The palace complex includes living quarters for the royal family and the Moroccan Royal Guard, as well as the Collège Royal, a school for senior royal family members, a cookery school, and a library housing the manuscript collection of Hassan II. Architecturally, the palace grounds blend French formal garden design with traditional Arabic influences and local horticulture, creating a unique cultural synthesis. The area is historically significant, having been developed since the 18th century by the Alaouite dynasty, with renovations and expansions through the 19th and 20th centuries. The palace remains central to Morocco's monarchy, hosting important royal events such as births and marriages. Its location adjacent to the French colonial government district symbolizes the historical relationship between the Moroccan monarchy and colonial administration.
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Tip: Visitors should plan their visit during the cooler months to enjoy the gardens comfortably. Although the palace itself is not generally open to the public, viewing the mechouar and surrounding gardens from the outside is recommended. Booking guided tours in advance is advisable for a more informative experience, and checking local schedules for any public events held at the mechouar can enhance the visit. Discounts may be available for students and seniors at affiliated cultural sites nearby.
Interesting facts
- •The mechouar in front of the palace serves as a large parade ground for public assemblies.
- •The palace contains the Collège Royal, an exclusive school for senior members of the royal family.
- •The library within the palace houses the manuscript collection of King Hassan II.
- •The district of Touarga, where the palace is located, was historically protected by the Tūwārqa military corps.
- •The palace gardens combine French formal design with traditional Arabic and local horticultural styles.
History
The Royal Palace of Rabat's origins date back to the 18th century under Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, who established it as one of his imperial residences.
Around 1785, the palace and a great mosque were built within the walls originally constructed by the Almohads in the 12th century.
In 1854, Sultan Abd ar-Rahman replaced the old palace with a new structure and renovated the surrounding area, enclosing it with a new wall.
During the French colonial period beginning in 1912, the palace district remained the seat of the sultan, while a new government district was created nearby.
After Morocco gained independence in 1955, the palace continued to serve as the monarch's main official residence.
Throughout its history, it has been the site of significant royal events, including the birth of King Hassan II and the marriage of King Mohammed VI.
Place Guide
Mechouar (Parade Ground)
A large public square in front of the palace used for official ceremonies and public assemblies, surrounded by gardens and the Ahl Fas Mosque.
Ahl Fas Mosque
The main Friday mosque within the palace district, adjacent to the mechouar, serving religious functions for the royal family and staff.
Royal Gardens
Extensive gardens surrounding the palace, designed with influences from French formal gardens, Arabic traditions, and local plant species, providing a serene environment.
Collège Royal
An exclusive educational institution within the palace grounds for senior members of the Moroccan royal family.
Palace Library
A ground-floor library built to house the manuscript collection of King Hassan II, preserving valuable historical documents.
Contact
Phone: 05 37 76 54 00
