Hassan Tower: Icon of Rabat

Travel Destination
December 24, 2025

Hassan Tower is a monumental building in Rabat that boasts the area’s incredible past all over it. This tower which was built around the year 1195 and primarily designed for the Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour, who wanted it to be the highest minaret of the Islamic world, was a great leap forward in the architectural field. Although it is still very visible today, it is not the intended 60 meters (197 feet) height of the Sultan’s minaret. The surrounding area consisting of the ancient stone pillars and the river Bou Regreg gives the site a magical atmosphere where history, religion, and architecture are intertwined.

Historical Background

Budget Planning

The development of the building started in 1195. The Sultan Yacoub al-Mansour was the one who ordered it to be created. A huge mosque complex was the purpose for which it was meant.

Almohad Architecture & Design

Budget Planning

Building of red sandstone. Decorating with very complicated geometric shapes. The height was more than 80 meters planned at the very start.

The Unfinished Mosque Complex

Budget Planning

This area had columns of stone where the prayer hall was supposed to be. The design of the original grand mosque. Incompleteness of construction did not diminish its historical importance.

Hassan Tower & the Mausoleum of Mohammed V

Budget Planning

Placed right next to the royal mausoleum. The juxtaposition of ancient and modern Moroccan architecture. A national and ceremonial site of great importance

Plan your trip to Norway

Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.

Get Started

Scenic Setting & Views

Budget Planning

Has a view of the Bou Regreg River from above. It is a place with a wide angle towards Salé. A deserted and tranquil open plaza perfect for strolling and shooting.

Best Time to Visit

The morning: The light is softer and there are not many tourists. The late afternoon: Photography during the golden hour.

Visitor Tips

Wear not too revealing clothes to show your respect. Visit the Mausoleum of Mohammed V alongside the other. Set aside time to stroll through the whole complex. A perfect stop on the Rabat city tour.

Related Blogs about Rabat

Explore the Royal Palace of Rabat, the King of Morocco’s official residence, and a sign of the nation’s political power and royal lineage.

Take a tour to the Kasbah of Udayas, the coastal fortress of Rabat, which is known for its blue and white streets, Andalusian gardens, and ocean views.