Rabat

The Treaty of Fes, signed on May 29, 1912, established the French protectorate in Morocco. This treaty fundamentally reshaped Morocco's territorial governance, with Rabat being designated as the administrative capital. The city's selection reflected strategic and symbolic considerations, as it allowed French authorities to effectively implement their colonial administration while respecting Rabat's historical and cultural significance.

November 18, 1955, marked the triumphant return of Mohammed V to Morocco, following a period of exile during the French protectorate. Celebrations erupted across Rabat, symbolizing the restoration of Moroccan sovereignty and the end of colonial rule. This event set the stage for Morocco's impending independence, with Rabat reaffirming its status as the political and cultural heartbeat of the nation.

On March 2, 1956, Morocco officially gained independence from France, marking a significant turning point in the country's history. Rabat, being the capital city, was at the forefront of national celebrations as it symbolized the center of political changes and modernization initiatives. As the country's political hub, Rabat played a crucial role in consolidating Moroccan sovereignty and projecting its newly acquired identity on an international stage.

On February 26, 1961, King Mohammed V of Morocco passed away in Rabat. His death marked the end of an era, as he was a key figure in Morocco's quest for independence and its early stages of nation-building. The nation mourned his loss profoundly, with Rabat hosting a series of memorial services that highlighted his role in shaping the modern Moroccan state and his legacy in advocating for unity and progress.

On May 6, 1986, the Agence Nationale de Réglementation des Télécommunications (ANRT) was established in Rabat to oversee Morocco's telecommunications policies. Its creation marked a critical step toward modernizing the nation's communication infrastructure. Headquartered in Rabat, ANRT continues to play a key role in regulating, planning, and promoting telecommunications services to boost Morocco's digital economy.

The National Zoological Garden of Rabat, commonly known as Rabat Zoo, was officially opened to the public on November 17, 1995. The zoo became a prominent educational and recreational attraction, providing insights into biodiversity and conservation. It houses a diverse range of species and emphasizes research and environmental education, reflecting Morocco's dedication to preserving its natural heritage.

On February 20, 2011, thousands of Moroccans took to the streets in Rabat, alongside other cities, as part of the wider Arab Spring movement. These protests called for political reforms, greater democracy, and human rights. While largely peaceful, they signaled a pivotal moment of social activism in Morocco, prompting the government to propose constitutional reforms and highlighting Rabat’s role as a center for civic engagement.

On November 13, 2013, UNESCO recognized Rabat's exceptional value as a world heritage site, underscoring its rich historical and architectural significance. This designation highlighted Rabat's unique urban ensemble blending its Islamic heritage with Western modernist influences from the French colonial era. The listing included important landmarks like the Hassan Tower and Chellah, establishing Rabat as a city of cultural importance.

The 22nd Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP22) took place in Marrakesh, Morocco from November 7 to November 18, 2016. Although the main events were in Marrakesh, Rabat's role as the political capital was pivotal in organizing national strategies and hosting preliminary meetings. Rabat's involvement underscored Morocco's commitment to climate action and sustainable development.

The Rabat Grand Theatre, completed on July 6, 2018, represents a modern architectural marvel designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Situated along the Bouregreg River, the theatre enhances Rabat's cultural landscape, providing a venue for diverse artistic performances. Its completion signifies Rabat's ongoing urban development and commitment to fostering cultural expression, solidifying its status as a cultural hub.