Minaret of Chellah Rabat - 15 franc

The Chellah (Challa) is a historic medieval fortified necropolis and ancient complex situated on the south bank of the Bou Regreg river in Rabat. Originally a Phoenician and Roman settlement (Sala Colonia), it was transformed in the 14th century by the Marinid dynasty into a royal burial ground and spiritual retreat. The complex's ruined mosque is crowned by a famous Marinid-style stone minaret adorned with intricate sebka tracery and geometric relief carvings, famously known for hosting nesting storks.

Issued in 1955 as part of the definitive architectural and landscapes series (MAROC / المغرب), this 12-franc postage stamp (POSTES / MINARET de CHELLA à RABAT) highlights the Minaret of Chellah. Designed by A. Delpy and engraved by Charles Mazelin, the slate-blue vignette captures the tall, decorated minaret rising above the ancient stone walls and surrounding rolling hills of Rabat.