Hassan Tower (صومعة حسان) is the unfinished minaret of a grand mosque begun in 1195 by the Almohad sultan Yacoub al-Mansour, who intended to build one of the largest mosques in the world. Work stopped when he died in 1199, leaving the red-sandstone tower at just 44 m and the mosque itself as a wide esplanade of roughly 200 stub columns. Facing the tower is the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, so the site brings together a 12th-century ruin and modern Moroccan royal history; the whole area was inscribed in 2012 as part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site 'Rabat, Modern Capital and Historic City.' It is an open, uncrowded monument that rewards an unhurried stroll.
The red-sandstone minaret with its square-to-octagonal form and finely carved geometric ornament
The forest of roughly 200 stub columns marking the mosque destroyed in the 1755 Lisbon earthquake
The facing Mausoleum of Mohammed V: zellij mosaics, a gold-leaf ceiling, carved cedar and white-onyx tombs in Moroccan-Andalusian style (open to non-Muslims)
The mounted royal guards in traditional dress stationed at the mausoleum and esplanade entrances
The hilltop setting overlooking the Bou Regreg river that divides Rabat and Salé
Good to know
MannersThis is both a mosque site and a royal shrine, so dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Remove hats and stay quiet inside the mausoleum.
RulesThe mausoleum can close during prayer times at the adjoining mosque (roughly noon to 2 pm), so check timing before you go.
CautionUnofficial 'faux guides' may start guiding you at the gate and then demand a fee. If you don't want one, decline politely but firmly from the start.
CautionMeterless taxis near stations and monuments often quote inflated 'tourist' fares. Use Rabat's blue petit taxis and insist on the meter (compteur).
SafetyRabat is calmer than Marrakech or Fez, but stay alert to pickpockets in crowded spots around the tram and train stations, and keep bags zipped.
SeasonIn the July-August heat the esplanade offers almost no shade and strong sun; bring water, a hat and sunscreen and visit early morning or late afternoon (spring and autumn are most pleasant).
MannersPhotographing the mounted guards is generally allowed, but be respectful and do not obstruct their movement or duties.
Practical info
Reach the site on Rabat-Salé Tramway Line 1 to the stop near Hassan Tower, or on foot or by petit taxi from Rabat Ville train station; the esplanade and the Mausoleum of Mohammed V are generally free to enter (the tower interior cannot be climbed). Always confirm the latest opening hours, prayer-time closures and any fees before your visit.
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