Rabat: A Literary Haven
Rabat, Morocco’s capital and a city steeped in rich cultural heritage, has been designated as the UNESCO World Book Capital for 2026, succeeding Rio de Janeiro. This prestigious title will usher in a year-long celebration commencing on April 23, 2026, highlighting the importance of literacy and literature. The initiative aims not only to combat illiteracy in marginalized communities but also to promote reading among women and children while strengthening the local publishing industry. Central to this initiative is the idea of making books more accessible by integrating reading into everyday environments, such as parks and cafes, thus enhancing the community’s engagement with literature.
The city was selected for its vibrant literary landscape and its role as a cultural crossroads, notably hosting one of Africa’s largest book fairs, the International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL). This year's fair, set to take place from April 30 to May 10, promises to be a grand event, attracting thousands of enthusiasts and featuring over 700 exhibitors from around 50 different countries. Adding to the significance of this year’s fair is its coincidence with Rabat's World Book Capital designation, where France will serve as the guest of honor, spotlighting renowned Nobel laureate Annie Ernaux. The fair aims to foster collaboration between French and Moroccan writers, publishers, and translators, while also celebrating the legacy of Ibn Battuta and the contributions of the Moroccan diaspora. Attendees can look forward to a variety of seminars, panels, poetry readings, and discussions focused on Arabic children’s literature.
Unveiling Rabat's Literary Treasures
For book lovers visiting Rabat, the old city's Medina and Rue des Consuls offer a treasure trove of traditional bookshops, Arabic calligraphy stores, and antique stalls. A must-visit is Mohammed Aziz’s legendary shop, where the charm of a “living library” awaits. Aziz, one of Rabat’s most established booksellers, boasts a collection of thousands of secondhand books and has read over 4,000 titles in Arabic, English, French, and Spanish, making him an excellent source for book recommendations. This quaint shop not only offers a chance to discover rare literary gems but also serves as a meeting point for fellow bibliophiles, students, and tourists.
Further enriching the literary experience in Rabat is the renowned museum dedicated to Moroccan and African art. This museum serves as a visual narrative of 20th-century Moroccan history, showcasing artwork that spans from colonial realism to contemporary expressions, thus facilitating a deeper understanding of Morocco’s complex past. Visitors can expect to encounter exhibitions that delve into themes of identity, modernity, and transition, complemented by serene study spaces and an array of paintings and photographs. Additionally, the museum features a bookstore and a gift shop stocked with literature pertaining to its collections and modern art.
The National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco stands as a beacon of knowledge, housing over 1,000 years of Moroccan, Arabic, and Islamic heritage with an impressive collection of more than 200,000 titles, including around 80,000 rare documents and manuscripts. This institution not only preserves invaluable historical texts but also embraces modernity with extensive digital archives and facilities designed for the visually impaired. As part of its “Digital 2030” strategy, more than half of the library’s content is already digitized, ensuring greater accessibility to Morocco’s literary heritage. Visitors can also enjoy amenities such as a bookstore, cafeteria, and a prayer room, making it an ideal spot for a full day of exploration.
For those seeking a more tranquil and outdoor reading experience, the enchanting Andalusian Gardens of the Kasbah des Oudayas provide a serene backdrop. The famed Cafe des Oudayas, with its breathtaking views of the Bou Regreg River, offers a perfect setting to unwind with a pot of traditional Moroccan mint tea, fresh orange juice, and delectable pastries like cornes de gazelle, all while immersing oneself in a captivating book.
As reported by euronews.com.
