As the capital of Morocco, Rabat is home to a wealth of captivating museums that offer visitors a deep dive into the country's rich cultural heritage. It's a city that I find endlessly fascinating and I discover something new every time I visit. Whether you're interested in modern art, enchanted by ancient history or eager to immerse yourself in traditional Moroccan culture, Rabat's diverse array of world-class museums are sure to leave a lasting impression.
In this article, I’ll introduce 6 of the best museums in Rabat to add to your itinerary, based on my explorations of the city.
For more information about things to see and do in the Moroccan capital, check out my Ultimate Travel Guide to Rabat. If you're looking for accommodation inspiration, I've put together some of my top picks for Rabat riads, as well as a list of highly-rated tours in Rabat focused on everything from food to cultural heritage.
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Museum of History and Civilizations
Opened in 1932, this world-class museum houses the most comprehensive collection of archaeological artefacts found within the country's borders. Stepping inside, you’ll be taken on a captivating journey through Morocco's fascinating past, with exhibits spanning from the Palaeolithic and Neolithic eras all the way up to the ancient Roman and Islamic civilisations that once flourished in the region.
One of the museum's true standout features is its impressive array of bronze sculptures, many of which date back to the pre-Roman and Roman periods. These meticulously crafted statues and figurines offer a glimpse into the artistic mastery of the civilisations that called this land home centuries ago. In addition to objects from the archaeological sites of Thamusida and Banassa, you can also get up close to treasures uncovered at Volubilis.
As one of the finest museums in Morocco, the Museum of History and Civilizations is an essential stop for anyone interested in archaeology. From the earliest human settlements to the architectural and cultural achievements of bygone empires, it provides an unparalleled window into Morocco's remarkable history and the diverse peoples who have shaped it over millennia.
Opening hours of the Museum of History and Civilizations: 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee for the Museum of History and Civilizations: 20 dh
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Better known as the MMVI, this state-of-the-art museum opened in 2014 to showcase the nation's rich artistic heritage. As the first large-scale museum built in the country since its independence from France in 1956, it represents a significant milestone in Morocco's cultural development, catering to both local and international art enthusiasts.
What truly sets this museum apart is its commitment to showcasing a diverse collection of modern and contemporary Moroccan artists, as well as works by international creatives. Among the more than 200 Moroccan artists represented are celebrated figures like Hassan Hajjaj and Ahmed Yacoubi, whose works deftly blend traditional Moroccan motifs with avant-garde techniques.
As a testament to its importance, the MMVI has become a hub for cultural exchange, drawing art lovers from around the world to engage with Morocco's contemporary art scene. Through its diverse programming, educational initiatives and collaborative efforts, the museum has firmly established itself as a leading institution in the realm of modern and contemporary art.
Official website: www.momaa.org/mohammed-vi-museum-of-modern-and-contemporary-art
Opening hours of the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: 10 am to 6 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee for the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: 40 dh
Best museums in Rabat
National Jewellery Museum
Housed within the 17th-century Kasbah of the Oudaias, this ethnographic institution offers a comprehensive exploration of the country's rich jewellery heritage. The kasbah’s buildings and Andalusian-inspired gardens have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites, adding to the allure and historical significance of this remarkable cultural destination.
Through its extensive collections, the National Jewellery Museum aims to represent the diverse history and geography of the country, showcasing the unique cultural specificities of each region and the workshops responsible for producing these exquisite pieces. The exhibition is thoughtfully divided into five distinct sections, guiding visitors through the evolution of Moroccan jewellery design, from the oldest known artefacts to the opulent bridal costumes and adornments of the modern era.
One particularly fascinating highlight is the museum's reproduction of perforated shell beads, dated to approximately 142,000 years ago, which were discovered in the Bizmoune cave near Essaouira. The collection then chronicles the pre-Roman, Roman and Islamic periods, culminating in a stunning display of early 20th-century pieces. In addition to its permanent exhibition, the National Jewellery Museum also presents a diverse program of temporary exhibitions, dedicated to promoting contemporary jewellery and personal attire.
Opening hours of the National Jewellery Museum: 10 am to 4:30 pm (closed Tuesdays)
Entrance fee for the National Jewellery Museum: 60 dh
Natural Science Museum
If you are intrigued by the wonders of the natural world and fascinated by the history of our planet, then the Natural Science Museum in Rabat is a must-visit destination. Situated in the heart of the capital city, this museum houses a treasure trove of displays that chronicle the origins of the Earth and the diverse array of creatures that have inhabited it over the eons.
The museum's most impressive exhibit is undoubtedly the skeleton of a sauropod dinosaur, discovered in 1979 in the Azilal region of the High Atlas Mountains. After years of painstaking excavation, the complete skeleton of this majestic herbivore now stands tall, measuring 15 metres in length, alongside a full-scale replica, complete with scales, teeth and eyes.
Beyond the dinosaur exhibit, the Natural Science Museum in Rabat offers a wealth of other displays, from fossilised plants to ancient human artefacts. Each item on display tells a unique story, transporting visitors back in time and shedding light on the incredible diversity and evolution of life on our planet.
Opening hours of the Natural Science Museum: 9 am to 3:45 pm (closed Saturdays and Sundays)
Entrance fee for the Natural Science Museum: Free
Best museums in Rabat
Bank Al Maghrib Museum
Housing an expansive numismatic collection that spans centuries, this museum offers visitors a chronological journey through the evolution of Moroccan currency and banking. With over 30,000 items ranging from ancient coins and monetary instruments to modern banknotes, the collection provides a comprehensive overview of how the financial systems of the Kingdom have developed over time. Each artefact tells a unique story, whether it's the intricate designs and symbols of old Moroccan dirhams or the commemorative notes issued to mark significant historical events.
Beyond the numismatic riches, the museum also features an art gallery that pays homage to Morocco's artistic traditions. Featuring a diverse array of 800 works, the gallery showcases the intersection of Moroccan and foreign artistic influences - from the earliest Orientalist depictions of the country to the modern paintings crafted by Moroccan masters.
Opening hours of the Bank Al Maghrib Museum: 9 am to 5:30 pm or until 1 pm on Sunday (closed Mondays)
Entrance fee for the Bank Al Maghrib Museum: 20 dh
Best museums in Rabat
Villa des Arts
Located in the heart of Rabat (near the Museum of History and Civilizations), this magnificent villa showcases an impressive array of contemporary paintings by a diverse range of talented artists. Step inside and you'll be surrounded by thought-provoking works that span a multitude of styles and mediums - from bold abstract canvases to photorealistic portraits.
But the Villa des Arts is far more than just a traditional museum; it's a dynamic, multi-faceted arts centre that hosts events and workshops to engage the community. On any given day, you might find the halls bustling with lively discussions led by renowned experts, hands-on art classes or immersive performances that push the boundaries of the visual and performing arts.
The museum's curators have a keen eye for discovering emerging talents, ensuring that each visit offers the opportunity to encounter fresh perspectives and innovative artistic visions. Only enhancing the cultural experience is the villa's Art Deco architecture, which provides an elegant and inspiring backdrop.
Opening hours of Villa des Arts: 9 am to 7 pm (closed Mondays)
Entrance fee for Villa des Arts: Free
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About the author
I'm Malika, a global traveller who first visited Morocco in 2014 before marrying a local and settling down in a little village on the Atlantic coast. Over the years, I've developed an intense love for Morocco, its majestic landscapes, storied cities and the incredibly warm hospitality of its people. As the owner and content creator of Malika in Morocco, I share my years of experience exploring the country, from north to south and from the Atlantic Ocean to the Sahara Desert. I am passionate about helping others plan their Moroccan travel adventures to ensure they get the most out of their North African experience.