Morocco showcases ancient history of Chellah in new exhibition

A new exhibition at Morocco’s central bank museum in Rabat is illuminating the ancient history of Chellah, an archaeological marvel on the outskirts of the capital. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Chellah spans 1.2 square miles—nearly five times the size of Pompeii—and showcases Morocco’s layered history, reflecting centuries of influence from multiple civilizations.

Archaeologists believe Chellah once thrived as a bustling port city. Located along the Bou Regreg River near the Atlantic Ocean, the site includes a fortified necropolis and surrounding settlements dating back thousands of years. Visitors to the exhibition are invited to explore Chellah’s “hidden treasures,” according to a sign at the entrance.

“Our goal with this exhibition is to underscore the importance of this historical site,” said Rochdi Bernoussi, director of the Central Bank Museum. Bernoussi emphasized that Chellah plays a crucial role in understanding Morocco’s ancient history, shaped by the Phoenicians, the Amazigh (Berbers), the Romans, and the Arabs. “Chellah is a symbol of Morocco’s rich heritage, embodying the contributions of civilizations that have left their mark on our culture and society,” he said.

The exhibition, open through April with free admission, offers a deep dive into the social, economic, and political evolution of the region. Artifacts on display highlight Chellah’s significance as a cultural crossroads, with a special focus on currency’s role in understanding Morocco’s economic history. “The coins minted in Chellah tell a story,” said Smahane Bouktab, head of the museum’s numismatics research department. “They depict local agricultural products and carry symbols that reflect the city’s religious identity.”

Scholars believe the area was first settled by the Phoenicians and later transformed into a Roman outpost from the second to fifth centuries. As a vital link between North Africa and the Mediterranean, Chellah was an important site for trade, governance, and religious life. The presence of thermal baths and working-class neighborhoods uncovered in recent excavations point to a complex society with diverse social layers.

Last year, archaeologists uncovered additional ruins at Chellah, revealing structures that indicate the presence of a thriving community. Among the finds were communal baths and residential quarters, believed to have housed workers who supported the port city’s economy. Abdeljalil Bouzouggar, head of the National Institute for Archaeological Sciences and Heritage, said the discoveries reveal much about life in ancient Chellah and suggest that more remains buried beneath the surface. “Chellah continues to offer clues about the ancient world,” Bouzouggar noted. “There is still much to uncover.”

Visitors to the exhibition have the chance to view these ancient relics up close, with the artifacts offering a tangible connection to the past. The exhibition includes items ranging from pottery and tools to the bronze coins that provide insights into the economic activities of ancient Chellah. “Coins from Chellah give us a unique glimpse into the city’s role in trade and agriculture,” Bouktab said. “They reveal what products were valued, what gods were worshipped, and who held power.”

The exhibition has drawn visitors from across Morocco and beyond, with many expressing a newfound appreciation for the historic site. “It’s inspiring to see Chellah’s history preserved and shared in this way,” said Rabat resident Nadia El Ghazali. “The artifacts help us understand the cultures that came before us and shaped our own.”

With its impressive scale and extensive history, Chellah remains a key symbol of Morocco’s cultural heritage. The site has captivated historians and archaeologists for decades, and as new discoveries are made, its significance only grows. For museum director Bernoussi, Chellah’s story is one that resonates deeply with Moroccans. “Chellah is not just an archaeological site; it’s a testament to our heritage and identity,” he said.

As the exhibition continues, both Bernoussi and Bouzouggar remain hopeful that Chellah will inspire future generations to explore and preserve Morocco’s rich history. With its vast expanse and hidden layers, Chellah stands as both a cultural treasure and a reminder of Morocco’s enduring connection to the ancient world.