Oudayas Museum and Andalusian Gardens, Rabat

The Oudayas Museum, nestled within the historic Kasbah des Oudayas, is a testament to the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Morocco. Originally an Almoravid fort overlooking the Bouregreg estuary, the kasbah was expanded by the Almohads in the 12th century and later by Sultan Moulay Ismail in the 17th century, transforming it into a royal residence and stronghold.

Established in 1915, the Oudayas Museum is one of Morocco’s oldest public museums, alongside the Batha Museum in Fez. It is housed in the former private quarters and reception rooms of Moulay Ismail’s palace, making it a stunning piece of historical Rabat architecture. The museum’s collections offer an insightful journey through Moroccan art and craftsmanship.

The museum showcases manuscripts, coins, astrolabes, weapons, textiles, and carpets from Islamic history. The first room features silver and gold-plated jewelry from Morocco’s regions, while loggias display 19th–20th-century ceramics. Another section highlights traditional city attire and ceremonial gold ornaments.

Adjacent to the museum, the Andalusian Gardens provide a serene retreat. These gardens occupy the site of the former palace gardens, replanted during the French Protectorate in the early 20th century by architect Tranchant De Lunel. Enclosed within ancient walls, the gardens feature vibrant flowers, fragrant roses, fruit-bearing trees, and wide, inviting alleys. The gardens are a favored spot among locals, particularly women, who come to enjoy its beauty and tranquility.

For those seeking an authentic Moroccan experience, a visit to the nearby café is a must. With its breathtaking views of the sea and the Bouregreg River, this charming café is the perfect place to enjoy a cup of mint tea and traditional pastries, offering visitors a taste of Moroccan hospitality.

The Oudayas Museum and Andalusian Gardens together form an essential stop in Rabat’s historical and cultural landscape. Whether exploring the museum’s extensive collection or wandering through the lush gardens, visitors are transported through centuries of Moroccan artistry, history, and natural beauty.