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Kasbah of the Udayas
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Historical site
The Kasbah of the Udayas is a historic fortress in Rabat, situated at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River. It was founded in the 12th century by the Almohads as a military base to repel attacks and prepare expeditions to Al-Andalus. The monumental Bab Oudaia gate, built around 1195, is a masterpiece of Almohad military architecture. In the 17th century, the Kasbah became a haven for Moriscos expelled from Spain, who gained notoriety as the 'Salé Rovers' pirates. The complex is characterized by narrow alleys with white and blue-washed houses, reminiscent of Mediterranean coastal villages. Within its walls are Rabat's oldest mosque and the Andalusian Gardens, which were added during the 20th-century French protectorate. Since 2012, the Kasbah has been part of Rabat's UNESCO World Heritage designation, serving as a symbol of Morocco's maritime and military history.
- Location: Morocco
- Top sights: Museum of Ceramics · Port de pêche de Salé · Medersa des Mérinides
- Nearby: Sidi Bouknadel (14 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May–Jul.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 14 | 16 | 17 | 19 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 21 | 17 | 15 |
| Rain mm | 66 | 52 | 55 | 38 | 19 | 3 | 2 | 3 | 33 | 55 | 98 | 67 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Kasbah of the Udayas is a public neighborhood that can be freely entered. The narrow blue-and-white streets and the Andalusian Garden are the main attractions.
Typical hours
The neighborhood is accessible 24/7, but shops and cafes have typical hours. The Andalusian Garden is usually open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Photography
Photography in the streets is allowed anytime, but respect residents' privacy. The white and blue facades make excellent photo subjects.
Time needed
Allow about one hour to stroll through the kasbah and the garden. If you linger in a café, you might need up to two hours.
Combine with
The kasbah is right at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River, near the Hassan Tower and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V. The old city of Rabat is also walkable.
Getting there
The kasbah is easily reachable on foot from central Rabat, about 15 minutes from Rabat-Ville station. You can also take a taxi that drops you at the entrance.
Insider tip
Visit the kasbah early in the morning before the tourist buses arrive. Enjoy a mint tea at the Café Maure with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Geography
Facts
- Founded in the 12th century by the Almohad dynasty.
- The monumental Bab Oudaia gate was completed around 1195.
- Contains Rabat's oldest mosque, dating back to roughly 1150.
- Served as a pirate stronghold for the 'Salé Rovers' in the 17th century.
- Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2012.
- The Andalusian Gardens were added in the early 20th century.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kasbah of the Udayas (15)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Kasbah der Oudayas?
A historic, fortified site in Rabat with white-and-blue houses.
Is it safe for tourists?
Yes, it is very popular and a safe place for a walk.
Are there great views?
Yes, from the terrace you have a great view of the sea.
Do you have to pay admission?
The quarter itself is a residential area and freely accessible.
What is the garden like there?
The Andalusian garden is a quiet, green oasis within the Kasbah.
Kasbah of the Udayas: where is it located?
Kasbah of the Udayas is located in Morocco.
Kasbah of the Udayas: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museum of Ceramics, Port de pêche de Salé, Medersa des Mérinides.
Kasbah of the Udayas: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jul.
Kasbah of the Udayas: why is it worth visiting?
The Kasbah of the Udayas is a historic fortress in Rabat, situated at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River.
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