Rabat, the political and administrative heart of Morocco, is often overshadowed by its more touristic siblings, Marrakech and Casablanca. Yet, those who dare to wander off the beaten path in February 2022 would have found in Rabat a charming blend of tranquility and vibrant culture—a city where history whispers through the Atlantic breeze.
February in Rabat is a gentle nod to spring. The city, cradled by mild Mediterranean climes, blossoms with an average temperature hovering around a comfortable 17°C (62°F). While the occasional shower may sprinkle the ancient streets, the mostly sunny days provide an ideal setting for explorers and history buffs alike.
A testament to Rabat's rich past is the Kasbah of the Udayas. Perched above the Bou Regreg river, this 12th-century fortress-town is a delight. Stroll through the Andalusian Gardens, a serene oasis, fitting for reflection or a moment's respite. The blue and white hues adorning the walls of this old medina are as hypnotic as they are Instagram-worthy.
A short walk from the Kasbah, visitors find themselves dwarfed by the majestic Hassan Tower, the minaret of what was intended to be the world's largest mosque. Unfinished yet unyielding, the tower stands in solidarity with the nearby Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Alaouite dynasty architecture, where the tombs glisten under a golden chandelier—a beacon of Moroccan artistry and reverence.
Rabat's medina remains a labyrinth of pleasure for senses that crave authenticity. February's coolness is ideal for unhurried haggling and leisurely explorations through the bustling souks. The scent of spices, the colorful displays of textiles, and the rhythmic chants of the merchants create a symphony unique to Moroccan marketplaces.
While the ancient beckons, Rabat's modern appeal cannot be ignored. February saw the continuation of the Rabat Biennale, a showcasing of contemporary artists from Africa and the Middle East, held biannually at various venues throughout the city, including the Mohammad VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art—the first of its kind in Morocco.
Sampling traditional Moroccan cuisine is non-negotiable. From aromatic tagines to fresh seafood along the Rue des Consuls, Rabat's culinary scene is a delight. The relatively off-peak season in February means less crowded dining and the opportunity for engaging conversations with local chefs eager to share their gastronomic stories.
Visitors in February 2022 enjoyed Rabat at a unique moment—post-pandemic travel still finding its steady pace, embodying a time capsule of calm. Whether wandering through the serenity of the Chellah necropolis with its Roman and Islamic ruins or watching the sunset over the Atlantic, Rabat offered a tranquil escape during a month where the city was neither asleep nor overrun, but simply perfect for those in search of solitude speckled with splendor.
As the sun sets on another day in Rabat, the city continues its eternal dance of tradition and modernity. For those fortunate enough to walk its paths in February 2022, they left with souls a little richer and memories vividly painted with the essence of this Moroccan jewel.
