Casablanca

Hassan II Mosque, © Can Stock Photo / philipus

Visit Casablanca – Hassan II Mosque

Hassan II Mosque – Also known as the Grand Mosque. The mosque is the premier attraction for tourists who visit Casablanca. Ranked as the fifth largest mosque in the world,  25,000 people can fit inside. The courtyard can hold another 80,000 people. The Hassan II Mosque marks the north eastern end of the Corniche. The Corniche is a boulevard lined with hotels and restaurants. The street also passes the famous La Reserve hotel, the beaches of Casablanca and the El Hank Lighthouse. At the southwestern end of the Corniche, see the Tomb of the founder of Algiers – Marabout de Sidi Abderrahmane.  The tomb is a pilgrimage site on a small island.

Hassan II Mosque Marble Tile, © Can Stock Photo / philipus

Visit Casablanca – Old Town Medina

Old Town Medina – The old town was built prior to the arrival of the French.  Some original stone walls remain. Also, 1 of the original 4 gates has survived. When you visit the Old Town Medina, also see the Parc de la Ligue Arabe, which is the site of the Casablanca Cathedral. Nearby is the large public square called Place Mohammed V.

Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

Visit Casablanca – New Medina

The New Medina has many other names. You can call it the Ville Nouvelle, Quartiers des Habous or the New Town. Drive by the Royal Palace (Palais Royal). You cannot enter the palace, but you can stroll the grounds. On your way to the New Medina, stop at the Hammam Zian bath house.