Rabat, Morocco

Rabat is the capital city of Morocco.  It is also where our friends live, and they were so kind to show us around and give us the 'highlights' tour.  

Chellah Necropolis

We see plenty of Roman ruins where we live, but it is still impressive to see ruins from such a massive, far reaching empire that are thousands of years old.

Morocco has beautiful foliage.

 

This particular white hanging flower smelled wonderful and caught our attention.  Lydia and Stewart picked several bouquets and handed them out to Dede and me. 

 As I was walking by a guard, he motioned to the flowers.  I figured we were in trouble b/c we probably weren't allowed to pick them.  Then I realized he was motioning for me to throw them down.  With hand charades running he says, "poison," and then does the universal 'it will make you crazy' circular hand motion next to his head.  That's when it registered.  Drop the flowers, wash your hands, don't touch your face.  The flower is an opiate.  Not only were they pretty; they were about to make us all high as kites or worse.  Thank you, Mr. Moroccan Guard.  Your kindness was much appreciated!

Next up, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V & the Hassan Tower

The Mausoleum houses the remains of King Hassan V and his two sons.  The tower is the result of an unfinished mosque and minaret constructed around 1200.  It was intended to be the largest in the world.

Last stop, the Kasbah.  If my understanding is correct, the Kasbah (most cities have them) was a fortified city area or castle where the leaders and other important people lived.  Now, they are often renovated into market areas, although people do still live within the Kasbah or Medina walls.

Local Moroccan cookies and mint tea with a beautiful view.  A sweet ending to a sweet day.  

Shalom Y'all,

E