The Mohammed V Mausoleum is a magnificent monument dedicated to the former monarch of Morocco. It is located in the country’s capital city, Rabat, and is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the country.
Between 1961 and 1971, Eric Vo Toan, a Vietnamese architect, designed the mausoleum. It is a rectangular structure made of reinforced concrete and clad on the exterior with white marble.
One enters the mausoleum through a sizable gate that has two minarets on either side. The gate is a stunning example of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, with intricate mosaics and sculptures.
When entering the mausoleum, a sizable courtyard welcomes visitors. Galleries that have mosaics, carvings, and calligraphy adorning them surround the atrium.
In the center of the courtyard is the principal mausoleum of Mohammed V. The mausoleum is made of white marble and is embellished with engravings and calligraphy. In the courtyard are also the monuments of Hassan II, the son of Mohammed V, and Moulay Abdellah, his brother.
Mohammed V’s Mausoleum is an awe-inspiring structure. It is a lovely example of traditional Moroccan architecture and a fitting tribute to one of the country’s most adored monarchs.
King Mohammed V’s Royal Mausoleum
The Mausoleum of Mohammed V, the final resting place of three notable members of the royal family, stands in opposition to the Oued Bou Regreg and overlooks it. The location of the Mausoleum is in Yacoub Al Mansour Square. The opulent tombstone belongs to the King of Morocco, his sons King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah. Sultan Mohamed V ruled Morocco for two distinct periods of time. The first spans from 1927 to 1953, while the second spans from 1957 to 1961.
His fight for Morocco’s independence is notable. In 1962, King Hassan II commissioned the construction of the Mausoleum of Mohamed V; the opulent structure was completed in 1971. The Royal Structure was designed by a Vietnamese architect and constructed by local craftsmen; it is said that 400 men were required to complete the mausoleum.
Architectural Magnificence of the Mausoleum
The architectural masterpiece attributed to the modern Alaouite dynasty is easily identifiable by its whitewashed silhouette and Green tiled ceiling painted Cedar wooden ceiling covered in gold leaf, sculpted plasterwork, marble, chiseled bronze panels, and The seat of Quran reciters.
The Tomb of King Mohammed V was carved from a white onyx/marble stone block, covered with geometric patterns of mosaic mini-tiles, and plastered. The Door leaves, the walls, and the ceiling were covered with distinct traditional artistic techniques to produce motifs and decorative designs. The regal building is illuminated by majestic chandeliers, has luxurious red carpets on the staircases, and is finished with flags.
Also read: Best Things To Do In Rabat
The Royal Tombstone Associates
The building’s entrance is guarded by regal soldiers clad in fine attire. The final resting place of the great monarch can be viewed from the upper balcony, where a magnificent granite block with a stele marks the lower level near the mausoleum of the king’s two minor sons. In Rabat, you can also visit the impressively large zoo, which is worthy of a full-day excursion. In addition, you can visit the Royal Palace in Rabat, the residence of King Hassan II and the royal family, to witness the architectural splendor of Moroccan art.
On a cultural level, Rabat is home to the renowned Mawazine festival, which has welcomed over 2 million guests annually since 2013. After Rabat, you can visit the pre-Islamic city of Sale, which a Merenid Sultan constructed. Morocco’s Fez and Meknes are just two hours distant.
The Royal Mausoleum of King Mohammed V is located on the Yacoub al-Mansour esplanade, on the opposite side of the Hassan Tower. It is always accessible to visitors, with the exception of two hours per day, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., when admission is free.
Tips for visiting the Mohammed V Mausoleum
- The Mohammed V Mausoleum is open to visitors from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, seven days a week.
- Visitors are required to dress modestly when visiting the mausoleum. This means covering shoulders and knees.
- Visitors are also required to remove their shoes before entering the mausoleum.
- Photography is not allowed inside the mausoleum.
How to get to the Mohammed V Mausoleum
The Mohammed V Mausoleum is located in the center of Rabat, and is easily accessible by public transportation. The nearest bus stop is called “Mausolée Mohammed V”, and is located just outside the entrance to the mausoleum.
Visitors can also take a taxi to the mausoleum. Taxis are readily available in Rabat, and the fare is relatively inexpensive.
Things to do near the Mohammed V Mausoleum
- Visit the Hassan Tower, an unfinished minaret that is one of the most iconic landmarks in Rabat.
- Take a walk along the Bouregreg River, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.
- Visit the Oudayas Kasbah, a historic fortress that is now home to a number of museums and art galleries.
- Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the Old Town, which offer a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes.
Conclusion
Rabat’s Mohammed V Mausoleum is a magnificent and must-see landmark. It is a magnificent example of traditional Moroccan architecture and a fitting tribute to one of Morocco’s most adored monarchs.
