Chellah

Overview

Located south of Rabat, is Chellah or Sala Colonia; a medieval fortified necropolis. A Merinid citadel in the early 14th century, the necropolis of Chellah is now a top attraction in Rabat. Uninhabited since 1154, when abandoned by the Romans for the city of Salé, Chellah was once a thriving city. It was then turned into ancient cemetery for royalty. Now converted into a series of gardens, the ruins of mosques and mausoleums found here are now covered in rambling brambles, which is a nesting site for storks. Those visiting this peaceful site will also come across ruins of a thermal bath, the forum, a triumphal arch, along with Islamic ruins where they will find a mosque and a zaouia as well as royal tombs scattered around. Visitors must roam around this atmospheric place and make sure to take along a picnic which can be enjoyed on the grounds.

Prayer Facilities

While Muslims visiting the necropolis of Chellah will not be able to find prayer facilities within its premises, they will be able to find plenty of secluded areas outdoors to offer their prayers. Muslim tourists can also make use of the facilities offered at one of the several mosques in the city, such as Grande Mosque, Mosquée Moulay Mekki, Ahl Fas Mosque and Mosque El Qoubba.

Halal Food

It is unclear if visitors to the necropolis of Chellah will be able to find food stalls. It is therefore recommended that visitors take along some snacks and enjoy a picnic on the grounds. Since Rabat is a Muslim city, visitors will also be able to find plenty of Halal restaurants and cafés throughout.

Must See

The Islamic ruins

Location

Chellah, Rabat, Morocco

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