UNESCO World Heritage SiteUNESCO Heritage
Chellah
Morocco

Chellah

Ancient Roman and Marinid necropolis site

Location

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Historical Context

About

Chellah is a significant archaeological site located in Rabat, Morocco. Initially established as a trading post by the Phoenicians, the site later developed into a Roman colony known as Sala Colonia, featuring essential Roman architectural elements such as roads, a forum, and temples. In the 13th century, the Marinid dynasty transformed Chellah into a dynastic necropolis, enclosing it with defensive walls and constructing religious complexes. This site provides valuable insights into Roman and Marinid architectural and cultural practices, including burial traditions and urban development. Despite its decline post-Marinid period, Chellah remains a critical site in understanding the historical transitions from the classical to Islamic periods in Morocco.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Phoenician Trading Post

600 BCE

Roman Province Annexation

40 CE

Roman Colony Establishment

40 CE

Roman City Development

120 CE

Early Muslim Arrival

683 CE

Marinid Necropolis Establishment

1284 CE

Decline of Necropolis

1417 CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Defensive Structures

Defensive WallsTowers
category

Water Management Features

Wells
category

Public and Civic Structures

Plazas
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Burial and Funerary Structures

GravesTombsCemeteriesMausoleums
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Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesMosquesMausoleums
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Artistic and Decorative Features

StatuesInscriptions
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Agricultural and Land Use Features

Gardens
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Domestic and Habitation Structures

TownsCities
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Transportation and Communication Structures

Roads
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Plan Your Visit

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Reference

Details

Country

Morocco

Coordinates

34.01° N, -6.82° E