Morocco's capital, Rabat, is an exotic imperial city with many cultural attractions. A far cry from Marrakech and Fez, Rabat is no less steeped in history; its origins go back to the 7th century. Known these days as the 'Washington' of North Africa - because of its parks, boulevards, monuments, embassies and government buildings - it is also the seat of the Royal Family. Rabat is situated on the estuary of a river, facing the Atlantic Ocean: sardine vendors can be seen all over, every corner shop stocking canned sardines in a mildly spiced tomato sauce, a delicious Moroccan specialty. Cultural attractions include the Archaeological Museum, which has an exceptional collection of Roman bronzes dating from the first and second centuries. More about Rabat Compare Arabic courses in Morocco