# Chellah Archaeological Site Ranks First in Africa for Historic Forts Morocco's Chellah site secures 35th place globally in the 2026 World Worthy rankings. - **Source:** [Sky News Arabia](https://www.skynewsarabia.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-12 - **Topic:** [culture](https://brifing.si/c/culture) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/50cd033b-f5f8-4d44-b02c-0294fa4969ad ## Global Recognition for Chellah The Chellah archaeological site in Rabat, Morocco, has achieved international acclaim by ranking first in Africa and 35th globally. This recognition comes from the 2026 World Worthy list of forts and castles. The site earned an impressive score of 9.27 out of 10, standing out among 100 locations across 40 countries. ## Methodology Behind the Ranking The ranking methodology relies on a comprehensive evaluation of visitor feedback published online. Analysts also considered the site's presence in professional tourism guides, press coverage, and public historical records. Data collection for this specific assessment concluded on November 4, ensuring the inclusion of recent visitor experiences and current site accessibility standards. ## Geographic and Historical Context Located on the left bank of the Bou Regreg River, the site spans seven hectares of historical terrain. It serves as a unique bridge between eras, housing ruins from the ancient Mauretanian and Roman city of Sala. Additionally, it features a medieval royal necropolis, reflecting the site's long-standing importance throughout various centuries. ## Heritage Protection Milestones Chellah was officially classified as a historical monument in 1920, marking the beginning of its formal preservation. Its global significance was further cemented in 2012 when it was included as a key component of Rabat's UNESCO World Heritage status. These designations have been instrumental in maintaining the site's structural and cultural integrity. ## Roman Era Urban Legacy During the Roman period, the site was known as Sala Colonia and functioned as a thriving urban and commercial hub. Excavations have revealed remnants of temples, public squares, baths, and fountains. The presence of a triumphal arch and a complex network of public facilities highlights the advanced architectural planning of that era. ## Merinid Dynasty Transformation In the medieval Merinid era, Chellah evolved into a royal necropolis and a center for religious and scientific study. The architecture from this period is distinguished by intricate geometric and floral motifs. Visitors can observe colorful zellige tilework and detailed calligraphic inscriptions that adorn the tombs of the ruling family members. ## Archaeological Treasures Discovered The site contains diverse artifacts that illuminate the political, economic, and artistic life of past civilizations. Notable discoveries include stone and bronze sculptures, such as the bust of Ptolemy and the head of King Juba II. These items are currently preserved and displayed at the Museum of History and Civilizations in Rabat. ## Commercial and Cultural Exchange Excavations have unearthed Latin and Kufic inscriptions alongside various ceramic and metal artifacts. Recovered coins provide evidence of the intense commercial activity at the port of Sala, demonstrating historical trade links between North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula. These findings continue to offer researchers deep insights into the region's ancient connectivity. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.skynewsarabia.com/middle-east/1904134-%D8%AA%D8%B5%D9%86%D9%8A%D9%81-%D8%AF%D9%88%D9%84%D9%8A-%D9%84%D9%84%D9%82%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B9-%D9%85%D9%88%D9%82%D8%B9-%D8%B4%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A3%D9%88%D9%84-%D8%A5%D9%81%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%82%D9%8A%D8%A7-%D9%88%D8%A7%D9%8435-%D8%B9%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D9%8A%D8%A7 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._