Hassan II Mosque
Finished in 1993 and located on a platform overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this iconic mosque is the second-largest mosque in the world, and one of few open to non-Muslims (through selected guided tour opportunities lasting around an hour each). The mosque can accommodate up to 25,000 worshipers offers Muslims the chance to pray on a glass floor, giving the unique feeling of praying directly over the sea. Everyone is welcome to admire the beautiful piece of architecture at any time from the spacious courtyard, which alone can accommodate a further 80,000 people.
The Corniche
Located in the same region as Hassan II Mosque, La Corniche is a beach front district offering an array of dining experiences as well as pools and beach access. On a hot day, the area can be found brimming with surfers, swimmers and sunbathers, offering a less traditional and a more holiday-escape experience of Morocco. La Corniche offers an area full of entertainment, and the chance to go on a pleasant and refreshing walk on the beach, or even a dip in the sea if you’re feeling daring.
Old Medina of Casablanca
Unlike in many Moroccan cities, the old part of town is surprisingly easy to pass by in Casablanca. There is the temptation to head straight out to the seaside to visit the Hassan II Mosque and beach area, however discovering the charm hidden behind the old city walls is a must on any trip to a Moroccan city. With its typical labyrinth style character, getting lost is undoubtedly easy, but with a bit of caution this can be a hidden beauty in itself. Indeed, it poses little risk as you’ll soon find yourself at one end or the other of the old quarters. Experiencing the pace of daily life, with children running in the narrow streets and men smoking in cafés, you can join the shoppers in their search for traditional treasures, and find the little sights buried in the medina, such as the Berber Mosque.
Museum of Moroccan Judaism
This unique museum, being the only Jewish museum in the Arab world, offers an insight into the history, religion, traditions and daily life of Jews in a Moroccan Civilization. Presented through exhibition rooms containing paintings, ornaments, clothing etc, as well as complete displays of Moroccan synagogues, it demonstrates not only the Jewish influence on Moroccan society, but highlights the history of interfaith coexistence in Moroccan Civilization.
Place Mohammed V
A visit to the administrative hub of Casablanca, the Place Mohammed V is a chance to experience first-hand the work of architect Henri Prost. Surrounded by public buildings which set the scene for further buildings throughout Morocco, including law courts, the square also hosts the statue of Marshal Lyautey, the first French Resident-General in Morocco from 1912 to 1925. In addition to this monumental statue, the square features a grand fountain dating back to 1976 which, at certain times of the day, hosts a music accompanied water show.
Parc de la Ligue Arabe
South of Place Mohammed V lies the Parc de la Ligue Arabe. Designed in 1918, this park, complete with a palm-tree-lined avenue, is Casablanca’s biggest open space. Perfect for games and walks, and offering a choice of small cafés, the Arab League Park gives guests the chance to relax and admire the flora of Africa, and even venture to the Cathédrale de Sacré Coeur, the neglected former cathedral on the edge of the park, hinting to the Art Deco past of Casablanca.
Cathedrale du Sacre Coeur
On the intersection of Rue d’Alger and Boulevard Rachdi, Casablanca, Morocco (map, website)
Built in 1930, Cathedrale du Sacre Coeurwas designed by French architect Paul Tournon who also designed other renowned churches in France. The cathedral is now open to the public with art exhibitions and art fairs. The establishment is magnificent in itself with skeletal pillars in ivory via Neo-Gothic style.
The cathedral is situated a bit further from other main attractions, so it’s wise to cab out first then work your way in.
This graceful cathedral was built in the 1930s and its architecture is a harmonious blend of both European and Moroccan style. It’s unfortunately been left to whither in the past few decades, and is now in need of serious restoration. But even in its current dilapidated state, the structure is still beautiful. Nearby is the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Lourdes, which is lit by a vast stained glass window covering more than 800 square meters.
Villa des Arts
Part of the ONA Foundation, one of Morocco’s primary cultural foundations, the Villa des Arts is one of the largest museums in Casablanca and is situated near the Parc de la Ligue Arabe. The Villa des Arts promotes contemporary arts in a framework of Moroccan culture and heritage and features around 800 artworks permanently, as well as temporary expositions of international and contemporary artists. It provides a different perspective on Moroccan culture, and even the building itself is a beautiful piece of Art Deco architecture daring back to 1934. Hosting numerous cultural events, the Villa des Arts attracts locals and tourists all year round.
Rick’s Cafe
248 Rue Sour Jdid, Casablanca, Morocco (map,website)
An ex-American diplomat in Morocco, Kathy Kriger, established Rick’s Cafe back in 2004 for travelers who yearn to relive the beloved Hollywood film: Casablanca. The restaurant/bar/cafe is inside a traditional Moroccan mansion with an interior mainly displaying photographs, and memorabilia from the film. Every decor placement inside the establishment is a tribute to the film.
Although we know that Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman weren’t actually in Casablanca during filming (the movie was completely shot in Burbank, California,) there’s no harm in bringing out the tourist in all of us once in awhile and soak in the greatest love story ever told.