Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum
Rabat, Morocco · Landmark
About Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum
Hassan Tower is the grand unfinished minaret of an ambitious 12th-century mosque commissioned by the Almohad ruler Caliph Abu Yaqub Yusuf al-Mansur. Directly opposite stands the Mausoleum of Mohammed V, a masterpiece of modern Moroccan architecture housing the tombs of the revered king and his sons. Together, these complementary monuments form Rabat's most iconic historical complex and celebrate the nation's rich architectural heritage.
Don't miss
- Marvel at the 44-meter red sandstone Hassan Tower surrounded by hundreds of historical stone columns.
- Admire the intricate zellij tilework, carved plaster, and gold-leaf cedar ceiling inside the Mohammed V Mausoleum.
- Observe the stoic Royal Guards in traditional ceremonial uniforms stationed at the gates and entrances.
- Take in the panoramic views across the Bou Regreg river toward the sister city of Salé.
Plan your visit
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the golden light flatters the red sandstone and the courtyard is cooler. Spring and autumn provide the most pleasant temperatures for walking around the exposed esplanade.
Admission to both the tower esplanade and the mausoleum is free of charge. No advance booking is required, though visitors must clear a routine security checkpoint at the entrance.
Take Line 1 of the Rabat-Salé tramway directly to the Tour Hassan station, located just a short walk from the entrance. It is also a quick five-minute petit taxi ride or a 20-minute walk east from the Rabat Ville train station.
Tips for visiting
- Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered, as the mausoleum is an active holy site and royal tomb.
- Bring a hat and sunglasses because the vast stone courtyard offers almost no shade during mid-day.
- Photography of the Royal Guards is generally permitted, but always be polite and do not touch their mounts.
- Keep noise levels low inside the mausoleum to respect the Quran reciters and worshippers below.
- Pair this visit with a stroll down to the nearby Bou Regreg riverfront and the historic Kasbah of the Udayas.
Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum FAQ
Can non-Muslim visitors enter the Mohammed V Mausoleum?
Yes, non-Muslim travelers are welcome to enter the mausoleum's upper viewing gallery. You can look down upon the royal marble tombs and admire the interior decoration, though you cannot access the lower sanctuary floor.
What is the dress code for visiting the site?
Visitors should wear respectful clothing that covers shoulders and knees before entering the mausoleum complex. While head coverings are not required for women, overly revealing clothes may result in being turned away by guards.
Is photography allowed on the grounds?
Photography is permitted across the plaza and from the mausoleum viewing balcony. Visitors are expected to refrain from flash photography inside and to maintain a quiet, dignified demeanor.
Are there facilities like restrooms and cafes on site?
Public restrooms are available near the entrance, but there are no cafes inside the monument grounds. Many cafes and refreshment stands can be found a short walk away along Avenue Tour Hassan and down by the marina.
More things to do in Rabat
Kasbah of the Udayas Neighborhood
Wander through a 12th-century fortress featuring striking blue-and-white alleys, ocean viewpoints, and peaceful courtyards.
Chellah Necropolis Landmark
Explore ancient Roman ruins and medieval Islamic necropolises framed by lush gardens and nesting storks.
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art Museum
Discover Morocco's premier collection of modern art showcasing top Moroccan and international artists.
Rabat Medina and Souks Shopping
Stroll through orderly, relaxed market streets to shop for leather goods, carpets, and traditional spices without heavy pressure.
Andalusian Gardens Nature
Relax in a tranquil oasis filled with flowering shrubs, citrus trees, and shaded pathways beneath the Kasbah walls.
Grand Theatre of Rabat Landmark
Admire the striking futuristic architecture designed by Zaha Hadid along the scenic banks of the river.
Bouregreg Riverfront Promenade Activity
Walk or ride a wooden ferry boat between Rabat and Salé while soaking in sunset views of the Atlantic.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: akirEVarga, Regragui on Pixabay.