Things to see in Casablanca
Things to see in Casablanca: Casablanca, the capital and largest city of Morocco, is situated close to the ocean. The long history of the nation and its colonial past have influenced how it looks. Some of Casablanca’s landmarks have an exotic Eastern flair thanks to the colonial administration’s architectural history, while others may have French or Arabic elements. Here is all the information you need regarding Casablanca’s attractions.
Things to see in Casablanca: Musalla Hassan II
The Great Mosque of Hassan II has a tower that is 210 meters tall. The world’s tallest religious building and Morocco’s largest mosque are two of the top things to visit in Casablanca. The mosque, which was built on the Atlantic coast, has a capacity of 25,000 people. There is space for 80,000 more attendees to gather in the mosque’s adjacent square to say their prayers. This massive undertaking was created by French architect Michel Pinsot. Morocco’s King Hassan II lay the mosque’s first cornerstone in 1986. The structure, which was entirely supported by donations, was completed in 1989, despite finishing work not being completed until 1993.
More than 10,000 skilled craftspeople, artisans, and artists worked on the marble floors, stone columns, mosaics, and other interior decorations. Heated floors, an extensible mosque roof, and seismic resilience were among the technological innovations integrated into the design. In the top section of the minaret is a laser projector directed at Mecca. From a distance of 30 kilometers, its beam is visible at night. In Casablanca, Morocco, the Hassan II Mosque is located on Boulevard Corniche.
Things to see in Casablanca: Half of Habous.
Located in the southern section of Casablanca’s Things to See, the new medina known as the Habous district was built fully on a traditional style. The area has a unique aura that is simultaneously Arab and French because it was developed in the 1930s, a period of French protectorate. With its maze of twisting streets, orderly dwellings, and profusion of gift shops and artisans’ shops, the Habous neighborhood resembles an idealized Arab city. Due to Morocco’s exoticism, walking through the neighborhood is surprisingly enjoyable. The district of Habous is interesting because of the monuments and places there. Among these are the Copper Market, which sells beautiful copper, brass, and silverware, the Royal Palace, Notre Dame de Lourdes Church, Mahcama du Pacha Justice Palace, and others.
Habbous, Morocco is the address.
House of Mahkam du Pacha
One of the oldest places in Morocco and a beautiful sight to see in Casablanca, this magnificent mansion appears to have been carried to the city from an ancient Oriental folktale. Actually, the Mahkama du Pacha is a type of organizational structure that was initially established in the Habous district during the 1940s. It was designed by French architect Auguste Cadet and combines elements of European architecture with Moroccan and Moorish themes. The palace of Mahcam du Pacha has been adequately kept up to the present.
It can be difficult to enter the palace because it is still being used for its original intent. Its subtle exterior and opulent interior, both constructed by the best regional artisans, leave an impression on those who visit. Every one of the palace’s 64 halls is exquisitely decorated with rare furniture, exquisite wood and stone carvings, moldings, and embellishments. Polychrome mosaic, marble, and cedar wood are all used in the room’s decor.
Address: Rue Moulay Ismail, Palais Mahkam du Pacha, Casablanca, Morocco.
Medina district of Casablanca
The Middle Ages are reflected in the history of the old medina, the oldest part of the city. Casablanca was then referred to as Anfa and was seen as a wealthy city. When the Portuguese took control of the city and severely devastated the medina, which had long been inhabited by traders and sailors, little of it remained. Today’s oldest residences don’t go back more than 200 years because the neighborhood had to be rebuilt.
The medina in Casablanca is unlike any typical tourist attraction. The area is not particularly wealthy, dirty, or secure at all times. But tourists do go there to sample authentic Arabic cuisine and Moroccan exoticism. In contrast to well-known tourist hotspots, this place has a distinctive ambiance. How undisturbed by tourists they are in their daily routines is one of the intriguing aspects of native life. The medina includes haphazardly designed buildings, a maze of little streets that regularly end in dead ends, and a ton of artistic graffiti on the walls.
Ancienne Medina of Casablanca, Morocco.
Things to see in Casablanca: African League Park
The major park in Casablanca was established in 1913. Its best feature is the park’s scenery, which is sumptuous in an eastern and well-kept in a European sense. The park is truly an oasis with its gorgeous flower beds, wide pathways, emerald lawns, fan palms, ficus, and date trees. Tourists commonly stop here while touring the neighborhood, and Arab League Park is a well-liked place for locals to unwind. There are eateries, ponds for ornamentation, a fountain, and family-friendly activities.
Casablanca, Morocco’s Arab League Park is the location.
Things to see in Casablanca: Ain Diab’s beach.
Ain Diab is the main city beach in Casablanca. This area is where the beach scene is located, and in the summer it appears as though the entire city congregates here. It serves as a focal point for enjoyment for the whole family and is a popular spot for both visitors and locals. Everyone is welcome to use the beach in Ain Diab. You can rent chairs, umbrellas, and sun loungers if you want to have lunch here. At the nearby cafés and restaurants, you can eat locally produced food, or you can bring your own food. Because the waves are frequently big, visitors can go surfing or play volleyball on the beach. They can also ride on horses and camels.
Plage An Diab in Casablanca, Morocco.
Things to see in Casablanca: Cape El Hank’s lighthouse
On the rocky El Hank cape, this lighthouse was built more than a century ago. The white tower, which is embellished with a carved cornice in Moroccan style, is one of the symbols of the port city. It stands 50 meters tall and can be seen from 53 kilometers away, making it Casablanca’s largest lighthouse. A tour can be taken to see El Hank. To ascend the tower, one must ascend a spiral staircase with 256 steps. From the viewing deck, views of the Atlantic Ocean, city blocks, and the bustling fishing slums are all possible.
El Hank Lighthouse, Casablanca, Morocco
Along the Corniche, stroll.
One of Casablanca’s most affluent areas is where the Corniche promenade is located. The promenade is constantly spotless, and opulent homes and luxury hotels have been built in the surrounding area. The vast majority of the beaches nearby are either hotel-owned or undeveloped. There are also a few little public areas with restricted services. A distinguishing feature is the abundance of plants and flowers along the Corniche promenade. The city’s nightlife begins on the major promenade in Casablanca. Numerous restaurants, bars, nightclubs, and discos are present.
Boulevard de la Corniche in Casablanca, Morocco
The Tamaris Aquatic Center
This is where the largest water park in Morocco is. It’s more than 7 hectares in size, and it’s 25 kilometers from Casablanca. The amusement park offers rides, and for those in need of food, there are numerous cafes serving a variety of foods, including traditional Moroccan food as well as American fast food and pizza from Italy. The Tamaris water park is divided into a number of zones. Children’s rides are accessible for toddlers, thrill-seekers can select the tallest slides, and anyone looking for some alone time can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the man-made river. There is also a zoo, a beach area, and elephants that act in real life.
Tamaris Aquaparc, Casablanca, Morocco
Mausoleum of Sidi Bou Abderrahman
This sanctuary is situated in a small community located on a rock above the Atlantic Ocean. Before the tide came in, the only way to get to the settlement was via land. To connect the town to the island, a stone bridge has been built today. This mausoleum is an important and revered site for Muslims. The ambiance is particularly special, and there are always a lot of pilgrims traveling from Casablanca by bus, car, or foot along the seashore.
The Boulevard de l’Océan Atlantique is located in Mausolée Sidi Abderrahmane, Morocco.
Morocco’s Museum of Judaism
The Jewish community in Casablanca used to be quite active, and Jewish culture significantly improved city life. A reminder of this is provided by the only Moroccan Jewish museum in the Arab world. The dedication and tolerance of Moroccans are attested to by this museum, which was founded in 1997 and draws tourists from abroad. Of the 5,000 Jews in Morocco, 2000 live in Casablanca.
There are functioning synagogues and Jewish schools. A display at the Museum of Moroccan Judaism highlights the lengthy history and distinctive culture of the country’s Jewish population. These include clothing, books, tools, furniture, religious items, and even a small jewelry business. Paperwork is also included. There is a separate area set up for temporary exhibitions. a location to watch media documentaries. One of the biggest attractions in Casablanca is the Moroccan Judaism Museum.
In Casablanca, on Rue du Chasseur Jules Cros, sits the Moroccan Museum of Judaism.
Evangelical Church of Saint John
Things to see in Casablanca: The Church of St. John the Evangelist, which is practically in the midst of nowhere, was constructed in 1906 on the outskirts of Casablanca. This historic structure, which was later demolished and pillaged by Berber tribes, served as a witness to the French colonization of Morocco. The remodeled building hosted Allied troops during World War II. St. John the Evangelist Church is presently situated in the center of Casablanca as a result of the city’s rapid growth since the temple’s construction. This little temple is in operation. The church is surrounded by a lovely landscape, and ivy is covering its facade.
St. John’s Church is located on Rue Felix E. Max Gedge in Casablanca, Morocco.
Sacred Heart Cathedral (Casablanca Cathedral)
This majestic church was built in Casablanca in 1930, when the French still controlled most of the country. The cathedral would serve as the major temple for the city’s considerable Catholic population at the time. Project creator Paul Tournon is a well-known French architect. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart was built using Neo-Gothic, traditional Moroccan architectural elements, and Art Deco style.
The temple’s interior is spectacular, including opulent embellishments, exquisite mosaics, and intricate stained-glass windows. Delicate decorations adorn the façade of the white temple. Since Morocco’s independence in 1956, there haven’t been any services inside the church. The shrine now serves as a center for public culture. Events can be found, such as fashion presentations, musical concerts, and art exhibitions. A viewing deck in one of the Church of the Sacred Heart’s towers provides stunning vistas of Casablanca’s attractions.
The Sacré Coeur Cathedral is located in Casablanca, Morocco.
Things to see in Casablanca: Square V for Islam
Things to see in Casablanca: One of Casablanca Squares’ most popular attractions is also one of its largest. It blends aspects of Moroccan and Andalusian architecture. Mohammed V Place is home to a number of interesting buildings, including the Prefecture, Supreme Court, Post Office, Bank, and Clock Tower. Numerous of these buildings are older than a century. A big park and public garden surround the square, which is surrounded by a verdant paradise of well-kept grass and flora. Mohammed V Square has a musical fountain in the center that attracts many of people at night. When dusk falls, the square attracts light and sound effects, and the nearby buildings are exquisitely lit.
Casablanca, Morocco, Muhammad V Square
Things to see in Casablanca: International Plaza
This square’s modern character began to emerge a century ago at the location of the once-bustling city market. It divides the city into two parts: the old and the new. The square is surrounded by old town blocks with colonial architecture, gift shops, new administrative buildings, banks, hotels, movie theaters, shops, and restaurants. Currently one of Casablanca’s busiest squares and a favorite among residents and tourists is United Nations Square.
A large globe with an artistically woven metal ribbon at its core and a clock tower at its northeastern corner make up the structure. This is why the old tower, which was built here in 1910 and served as a symbol of colonial power, was dismantled in 1948. The tower was restored to its original state in 1993 after the administration of Casablanca proclaimed it to be an important part of the city’s heritage.
Address: Boulevard Rachidi, Place des Nations-Unies, Casablanca, Morocco.
Things to see in Casablanca: Towers, The Twin
Casablanca is one of Morocco’s most affluent cities in terms of lifestyle, as evidenced by the city’s two magnificent modern monuments. In the middle of the commercial sections are the 28-story, 115-meter-tall buildings. One of the newest symbols in the city, they represent the Casablanca Twin Center complex. The twin towers, which were presented in Casablanca in 1998, were designed by Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill.
They are visible from both inside and outdoors. A five-star hotel, cafés, pubs, stores, boutiques, banks, and offices are all nearby. Shopping centers also exist. High-quality national costumes are available for buy here and would make a nice gift.
The Boulevard Al Massira Al Kadra in the Moroccan capital is home to the Casablanca Twin Center.
Things to see in Casablanca: Arts Casa
Things to see in Casablanca: One of the top things to do in Casablanca is to visit the Villa des Arts, the city’s art museum. It is housed in a white, two-story Art Deco structure that is surrounded by a magnificent garden. In addition to holding exhibitions, this gallery serves as the city’s cultural center. Public events are held here, schoolchildren and students learn about art, and there are daily group tours for visitors.
The artwork on display was created throughout through the 1930s. Sculptures, paintings, and decorative panels created by Moroccan and international masters are displayed in the gallery’s spacious exhibition halls. Entry is uncharged.
Rue Abou El Kacem Chabi, Villa Des Arts, Casablanca, Morocco
The Beth-El Temple.
There are more than 30 synagogues in Casablanca, but Beth El is the one that attracts the most tourists. It was built in the center of the Jewish community and is thought to be the country’s oldest building. The Temple Beth El is a site of worship and culture. It has a sizable meeting place for prayer as well as a children’s Sunday school. The synagogue was built to the very finest standards of Art Deco.
It is decorated with ornately carved wooden doors, tall, skinny windows, magnificent, gilded black domes, and stained-glass windows. The interior decoration includes handcrafted furniture and unique ornamental touches. Right adjacent to the synagogue is a beautiful, spacious park with play areas and attractions.
In Casablanca, Morocco, near Rue Jaber Ben Heyn, is where you can find Temple Beth-El.
Things to see in Casablanca: Africa Mall
Visitors looking for more modern activities might also find attractions in Casablanca. The Morocco Mall, which is located in Casablanca, is not only the largest shopping complex in Morocco but also on the entire African continent. This beautiful three-story building has 200 thousand square meters in size. It has exotic plants, flowers, fountains, and waterfalls. The Morocco Mall has won multiple prestigious accolades for its design, architecture, most innovative idea, and best retail and recreational development in both Morocco and Africa since its opening in December 2011.
There are around 350 stores, eateries, and services present. The middle of the shopping mall is home to a huge, cylindric aquarium with a 1 million liter capacity. It is home to more than 40 different species of fish, and guests can see their lives from within by either diving with a skilled instructor or taking a specially designed elevator to the aquarium’s core for a 360-degree view. A movie theater, a kids’ play area with rides, an ice rink, and a lot of cafes and restaurants can all be found at the Morocco Mall.
On Boulevard de Biarritz in Casablanca, you can find Morocco Mall.