Chellah, Rabat

Nestled in the heart of Morocco's capital, Rabat, the Chellah is a captivating historical site that offers a unique glimpse into the country's rich past. This ancient necropolis, now an open-air museum, was originally a Phoenician settlement before becoming a Roman colony known as Sala Colonia. Over the centuries, it transformed into a thriving medieval Islamic complex, until it was abandoned and left to the elegant embrace of time.

The Chellah's ruins are a testament to the layers of history that have unfolded on this site. Visitors can explore the remnants of the Roman town, including the Decumanus Maximus, the main thoroughfare, and the forum, once the heartbeat of Roman public life. The site also features the hauntingly beautiful Merenid necropolis, with its ornate tombs and the remnants of a mosque, drawing a vivid picture of life during the Merenid dynasty.

The Chellah is also home to the Royal Mausoleum, which contains the tomb of the Moroccan sultan, Abu al-Hasan Ali ibn Othman. The mausoleum is a masterpiece of Marinid architecture, with intricate tilework and calligraphy that whispers stories of a bygone era.

Today, the Chellah is a serene oasis in the bustling city, with lush gardens and the soothing sounds of birds that have made the ruins their home. The site also hosts the annual Chellah Jazz Festival, merging the ancient with the contemporary in a celebration of music and culture.