Global Treasures: Rabat

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1037

UPC: 879061006364

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Rabat was once the centre of power of the Almohades. Today it is the capital of Morocco and the government headquarters of King Mohammed VI. The majority of its buildings are linked to the country's historic past and its former sovereigns, including the mausoleum of Mohammed V. Opposite the Mausoleum is one of the city's best-known landmarks, the Hassan Tower, that rises 44 metres into the sky. In the picturesque quarter of the Kasbah Des Ordains, with its whitewashed houses and sky-blue doors and window frames, is the city's oldest mosque.

When Marrakech became the country's capital city, Rabat gradually fell into decline until 1609, when Andalusian Muslims and Jews settled here. An increasing number of people inhabited the Kasbah.

The administrative area and parade ground of Méchouar in the southwest of the town is part of the Cité Royale, a town within a town.

Beyond the city's defensive walls, the ancient ruins of Chellah are a reminder of both pre-Christian and pre-Islamic times. During the 3rd century BC, the Carthaginians built their first trading establishment here, which was later extended and became the famous Roman harbor of Sala.

Due to its rich history, architecture and unique ambience, each year this royal city at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River enchants thousands of visitors from all over the world.