Chellah: A Journey Through Time in Rabat

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wada'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [a'dhiran]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير، وأنت؟
  [bikhayr, wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakol allahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtak!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!ارحل!
  [irhal!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atasil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atasil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت الطريق
  [laqad dalalt altariq]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أود أن أشتري...
  [awid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarij]
• How much is it?كم هذا الثمن؟
  [kam hadha althaman?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hadha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafe alsiar?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaa'ah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaa'ah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)النصف بعد (10)
  [alnusf ba'd (10)]
• Morningالصباح
  [alsaabah]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [ba'd althuhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [almasa']
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalathah]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'ah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'ah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamaniah]
• 9تسعة
  [tis'ah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين...؟
  [ayn...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma hu al'unnwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala alkharytah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي الحافلة التالية؟
  [mata ya'ti alhafilat altaliyah?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tadhkirah (ila ...)]

Chellah's history dates back to the Roman era when it was known as Sala Colonia, a flourishing settlement established in the 3rd century AD. The site became an important trading hub, with remnants of Roman structures, such as temples and baths, still visible today. The strategic location near the Bou Regreg river facilitated trade and communication, establishing Chellah as a vital link between the Mediterranean and the interior regions of Morocco.

Following the decline of Roman influence, Chellah transformed significantly with the arrival of Islam in the 7th century. The site became a necropolis and a center for learning, reflecting the Islamic architectural style of the period. The establishment of the Almohad dynasty in the 12th century further contributed to the development of Chellah, leading to the construction of new structures, including the mosque and the defensive walls that still stand today.

During the 13th and 14th centuries, Chellah became a significant site under the Marinid dynasty. The rulers invested in the expansion of the necropolis and the construction of intricate mausoleums and gardens, showcasing stunning examples of Marinid architecture. The site's blend of Islamic and local styles reflects the cultural exchange that characterized this period, making it a prominent symbol of Rabat’s rich heritage.

The 19th and early 20th centuries marked a period of decline for Chellah, as European colonial interests shifted focus towards Rabat's modern development. Despite this, the site's historical significance was recognized, leading to efforts to preserve its ruins. The colonial era saw the establishment of gardens within the ruins, which transformed Chellah into a tranquil retreat, attracting both locals and visitors seeking to explore its ancient past.

Today, Chellah is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and stands as a testament to the rich tapestry of Rabat's history. It serves as a vital cultural landmark, attracting tourists and scholars alike who are drawn to its ancient ruins, lush gardens, and the annual festival celebrating the site’s historical significance. Chellah embodies the enduring legacy of Rabat as a crossroads of civilizations and a center of cultural exchange throughout history.

Chellah is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Rabat. You can take tram line 1 to the 'Gare de Rabat Ville' stop and then catch a local bus (line 4) directly to Chellah. Taxis are also a convenient option; just inform the driver of your destination. If you're coming from the Kasbah of the Udayas, it's a pleasant 20-minute walk along the Bou Regreg River.

Chellah is a compact site, making it easy to explore on foot. The ruins, gardens, and historical features are all within walking distance. If you wish to explore further, local taxis are available for hire. Bicycles can be rented from various shops in Rabat, offering a scenic way to explore the area surrounding Chellah.

Chellah is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid wandering alone at night, particularly in less populated spots. Petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur in tourist-heavy areas, so keep your belongings secure. While specific high-crime areas are not prevalent, it's best to remain aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 19 for the police or 15 for an ambulance in Morocco. Rabat has several hospitals and clinics, with the nearest major hospital located in the city center. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies nearby where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting historical sites. Avoid revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious areas. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to the elderly or pregnant women. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a handshake and a smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local street food and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is seen as impolite.

To experience Chellah like a local, take your time wandering through the gardens and ruins, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere. Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene environment. Engage with local vendors selling crafts and snacks; they often have fascinating stories about the area. Don’t miss the chance to observe the storks nesting on the ancient ruins, a sight unique to Chellah.