The Berkeley Guides:
Berkeley Guide to Europe:
Morocco:
Rabat
A stop in "Raba," as the capital is known, provides a break from the rigors--and the excitement--of traveling in Morocco. Due to the royal presence (Rabat is the king's primary residence), it's a showcase city without much in the way of character. Rabat's real appeal lies in its (relatively) laid-back demeanor, which means you can talk to people on the street without the constant worry of being hustled. For some stress-prone backpackers, this is enough to recommend a short stay in Morocco's fourth-largest city.
Once a launching point for the Muslim conquest of Spain and then an autonomous port noted for its mercenary pirate fleets (the Salé Rovers, scourge of Spanish treasure galleons), Rabat regained prominence as the French administrative center of Morocco in 1912. After independence in 1956, Rabat was crowned capital, even though Casablanca was (and still is) the country's financial and industrial leader. Still, modern Rabat is home to most foreign embassies and to wide, calm streets where nothing much seems to happen. After a day or two of strolling about, you'll be ready to return to the real Morocco.
|
