The Majestic Hassan Tower: Rabat's Timeless Landmark

• Helloسلام
  [salaam]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaa'an]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا
  [shukran]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [aathirana]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayfa haluk?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bi-khayr. wa ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al-ingliziyya?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [laa afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد رؤية القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid ru'ya al-qaima, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la aakul al-lahm]
• Cheers!في صحتك!
  [fi sahtik!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأرغب في الدفع، من فضلك
  [urghab fi al-daf', min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [al-najda!]
• Go away!اذهب بعيدا!
  [idhab ba'eedan!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [itassil bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [itassil bialtabib!]
• I'm lostضاعت طريقي
  [da'at tariqi]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد شراء...
  [urid shira...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتفرج
  [ana faqat atfarruj]
• How much is it?كم هو ثمنه؟
  [kam huwa thamanuh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk kaff al-sa'r?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam al-saa'a?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [al-saa'a al-wahida]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [al-saa'a al-ashira wal-nisf]
• Morningالصباح
  [al-sabah]
• Afternoonالظهر
  [al-duhr]
• Eveningالمساء
  [al-masa]
• Yesterdayالبارحة
  [al-barhah]
• Todayاليوم
  [al-yawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arba'a]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsa]
• 6ستة
  [sitta]
• 7سبعة
  [sab'a]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tasia]
• 10عشرة
  [ashara]

• Where's a/the...?أين...
  [ayn...]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa al-eanwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuk an tureeni (ala al-kharita)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata al-qadim (al-hafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ....)
  [tazkirah (ila ....)]

Hassan Tower, or Tour Hassan, was commissioned by Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour in 1195 as part of a grand mosque project intended to rival the Great Mosque of Kufa in Iraq. The Almohad Dynasty aimed to create a monumental structure that symbolized their power and religious devotion. Construction was halted unexpectedly in 1199 following the sultan's death, leaving the tower incomplete.

The design of Hassan Tower reflects the rich architectural style of the Almohad period, characterized by intricate geometric patterns and large, imposing structures. Standing at approximately 44 meters tall, the tower was originally intended to reach 60 meters, showcasing the ambitious vision of its creators. The use of red sandstone and the incorporation of decorative elements made it a significant example of Islamic architecture in Morocco.

Hassan Tower is situated in the historic city of Rabat, which was established as a military fortress in the 12th century. The tower, alongside the remnants of the mosque, represents a key piece of Moroccan heritage, reflecting the cultural and political aspirations of the Almohad dynasty. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts visitors seeking to understand Morocco's historical narrative.

In the 20th century, Hassan Tower became a national symbol of Morocco, particularly after the country gained independence in 1956. The adjacent Mausoleum of Mohammed V, completed in 1971, further enhanced the site's significance, serving as the final resting place of the late king and his two sons. This connection to contemporary Moroccan identity and history continues to draw both locals and tourists to the area.

Hassan Tower and its surrounding gardens are often venues for cultural events and festivals that celebrate Moroccan heritage. The site plays an essential role in promoting national pride and cultural awareness, serving as a backdrop for exhibitions, music performances, and traditional celebrations, thus fostering a connection between the past and present for the local community.

Hassan Tower is located in Rabat, Morocco, easily accessible from other neighborhoods. From the city center, you can take tram line T2 towards the 'Avenue Hassan II' station, which is within walking distance of the tower. Alternatively, local taxis and ride-sharing services like Careem are available throughout the city. For those arriving from the Rabat-Salé Airport, taxis are the most convenient option, taking approximately 20-30 minutes to reach Hassan Tower.

Hassan Tower is situated within a walkable area, allowing visitors to explore on foot. Public transport options include trams and buses, which connect to various parts of Rabat. Bicycle rentals are available nearby for those looking to explore at a leisurely pace. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily accessible if you wish to visit other attractions in the city.

Hassan Tower is considered a safe area for tourists. However, as in any city, it is wise to remain vigilant. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on personal belongings. Crime targeting tourists is relatively low, but petty theft can occur in crowded places. Areas to be cautious of include some backstreets away from the main tourist spots.

In case of emergency, dial 19 for police assistance or 15 for medical emergencies in Morocco. The nearest hospital is the Moulay Youssef Hospital, which is a short taxi ride away. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Avoid shorts and revealing tops. Religion: Do respect local customs; remove shoes before entering mosques. Public Transport: Do be polite, offer your seat to the elderly, and maintain quiet. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with 'Salam' and a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offers graciously. Don't eat or drink in public during Ramadan.

To experience Hassan Tower like a local, visit the nearby gardens and enjoy a picnic while taking in the view of the tower. Engage with local vendors at nearby souks for authentic Moroccan crafts and foods. Try to learn a few basic Arabic phrases; locals appreciate the effort. If possible, visit during the evening when the tower is beautifully illuminated, making for great photography opportunities.