Chellah

Romans built a city here; Muslims built a necropolis on top. Now nature is building something else — gardens over graves, storks nesting on minarets, fig trees cracking walls. Chellah is Rabat's most atmospheric ruin. The Roman Sala Colonia traded with the Mediterranean until the 3rd century. The Marinid sultans chose the abandoned site for their tombs in the 14th century, building a mosque and zawiya that are now beautiful wreckage. The colonnade remains; the prayers don't. The spring-fed pools are said to grant fertility — women still come to feed the eels and make wishes. The storks return every year to nest on the ruined minaret. In spring, the site blooms with wildflowers. Come with time to wander. Best time: Late afternoon (golden light, fewer crowds) Allow: 1.5-2 hours Combine with: Hassan Tower and Oudaias Kasbah