Salé Medina & Great Mosque
المدينة العتيقة بسلا
The older, more traditional sister city across the river, with an 11th-century Grand Mosque and the Bab Mrisa sea gate from the pirate era. Few tourists come here.
Salé has a longer history than Rabat. In the 17th century the two cities formed the Salé pirate republic, which struck fear into European shipping. The old town is more traditional than Rabat's and sees few tourists. Sights include the Grand Mosque, begun in the 11th century (non-Muslims may not enter), the Marinid-era Bab Mrisa sea gate, the mausoleum of the saint Sidi Ben Achir, and the cemetery facing the sea. The market has pottery, wickerwork and woodworking workshops. Free.
Opening hours
Shops approx. 09:00–19:00
Nearby sights
- Merinid Madrasa of Salé
- Bouregreg Marina
- Rabat Beach (Plage des Oudayas)
- Kasbah of the Udayas
- Andalusian Gardens & Oudaya Museum
- Rue des Consuls
- Hassan Tower
- Rabat Medina