Reuters

Behind the walls of the Kasbah of the Udayas, and Rabat’s Medina, a labyrinth of small alleys, colourful buildings and street markets offer a glimpse into city's rich history.

Rabat was recently listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and is widely considered a "must see" destination, but as most tourists head to the more famous cities of Marrakesh and Fez, the ancient neighbourhoods of Morocco's capital remains an oasis of calm.

The Kasbah was built by the Almohad dynasty in 12th century, at the mouth of the Bou Regreg River. Originally a fortress, the site was a strategically important military base as the dynasty expanded into Andulucia. The historic center is now home to about 2000 people.

A woman walks between houses painted in traditional blue and white in the Kasbah of the Udayas.

A combination picture shows some of Rabat’s colourful doors.

People walk through Bab el Had gates of Rabat's Medina.

A woman walks on the rooftop of a building in Rabat's Medina as the walls of Kasbah are seen in the distance.

Items are for sale at a small flea market.

A man sleeps infront of a closed shop.

A woman is reflected in a mirror as a barber reads the Koran.

A man plays arcade games in an entertainment saloon.

Mint tea is ready to be served in a traditional house in the Kasbah.

A decorated television is seen inside a home.

Stickers of Morocco’s King Mohammed VI decorate a door painted in the national colours.

Men sit on a painted wall behind the Bab el Bahr gates of Rabat's Medina.

Girls look through the window of a house in Kasbah.

A cat rests in a window of a house painted in traditional blue and white.

Peanuts, pumpkin seeds and other snacks are offered on a trolley in Rabat's Medina.