Almost every Islamic city has its main monument, the Kasbah is a fortress that has been full of life for many centuries, where destinies were decided and laws were passed. Unfortunately, most of these fortresses, due to time, wars, and earthquakes, have been just partially preserved: the main wall and a few low buildings behind the fortress wall. But in Rabat, the Kasbah of the Udayas was preserved almost perfectly. And it is possible to judge what treasures were stored behind the walls of ancient cities.

The Kasbah of the Udayas is a monument of Moorish architecture. Its construction dates back to the XII century. Already during construction, a beautiful portal was created here. There were images of animals - one of the traditional ornaments in Arabic painting. Houses, fortifications, warehouses, and mosques were built here.

Gradually, the Kasbah grew larger and larger. It flourished in the middle of the XIII century. At that time, it was one of the largest fortresses in Africa. Then it became a real city within a city. Only the nobles and the chosen people could live within the walls of the Kasbah, so the houses were rich and beautiful here. Inside, it was a real paradise: lush trees, fountains, mosaic floors, and even street roads.

But, unfortunately, in the middle of the XIV century, the fortress fell into decline. It was occupied by pirates who were defending themselves from European colonizers and navigators. They paid little attention to beauty, which led to a significant loss of former luxury.

The revival of the Kasbah of the Udayas took place in the XVI century: the Alaouites occupied the fortress and rebuilt it almost anew, preserving the legacy that remained of its former greatness.

Today, the Kasbah of the Udayas is one of the main attractions of Rabat. It is also a city within a city. People whose ancestors settled in the Kasbah several centuries ago continue to live here. There is a large market, the most famous minaret, museums, cozy cafes, and probably the best observation deck in all of Rabat: it offers a magnificent view of the city and the ocean.