Top Attractions to See in Casablanca, Morocco
A stopover in Casablanca is always inevitable when you are trying to kick-start a trip to Morocco. Whether it's the beautiful sea views or the characteristic local architecture, it will add a lot to your trip. Here are some of the places you should not miss on your trip to Casablanca.
Hassan II Mosque
The Hassan II Mosque must be visited if you travel to Casablanca. The only mosque in Casablanca that non-Muslims can enter, this grand mosque is an illustration of Moroccan design. As the second-largest mosque in the world, it was finished in 1993, and it has a 200-meter minaret, which is regarded as the best in the entire world. The mosque's location is remarkable because a third of it was purportedly constructed on the Atlantic Ocean in memory of Arab forefathers. The temple has no chairs, just like a conventional mosque, so that visitors can kneel more reverently and converse more freely. The main hall's roof can open and close completely on its own. Titanium doors and fine crystal chandeliers are used at the same time to make it more opulent. The mosque also offers daily guided tours in a variety of languages at a non-Muslim religious center.
Hassan II Mosque
Old Medina of Casablanca
Medina is rich in history, with the majority of its structures dating to the early 19th century. It's important to observe that the old Medina in Casablanca has a maze of little towns and a relaxed walking area, even though it differs from the old Medina in Fes and Marrakesh. As you stroll down the street casually, you may be surprised by what you see around the next curve. Medina's beautiful Islamic architecture as well as the local way of life are breathtaking sights. Today, a large portion of the old center serves as a city center and market for exotic goods. Leather items, shoes, spices, and rugs are all readily available from local artisans, and the majority of them are open to price negotiations. Similar to this, Medina includes little eateries and outdoor cafes where people may relax and enjoy daily life.
Old Medina of Casablanca
The Corniche
As the most fantastic position to photograph the Hassan II Mosque, this place also offers an ocean vista or sea breeze close to the city center. Restaurants, ice cream shops, and cigarette lounges ring The Corniche, providing the ideal respite from the city's bustle. On the weekends or during Ramadan, Casablanca residents love to stroll along the promenade. The Corniche's rich and inventive sea pools, which are constructed along the water's edge to avoid the discomfort of strong waves, are its special attraction. Beach football, balloons, and street food give you a complete experience of the region. Additionally, there are other places for young people to have fun here, including eateries, bars, and cafes.
Mohammed V Square
The Square of Mohammed V, where the city's courts, banks, and consulates are located, is Casablanca's main square and municipal hub. There are numerous 1920s structures, all in the recognizable European Art Deco design. The neighboring structures include magnificent arcades and a white facade with five-colored stone ornamentation that is inspired by Sephardic Muslim architectural and decorative styles. In contrast to the palm trees and fountains in the background, its government buildings stand out. This square also houses the Casablanca Theater. A building in the modern art style may be seen in the distance. The Square of Mohammed V is also home to a large number of pigeons, which can be photographed and fed, hence it gets the nickname "Pigeon Square".
Mohammed V Square
Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral
Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral (Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral), which was finished in 1956 and is still very fresh, is another magnificent example of 20th-century architecture. A Catholic church that, when viewed from the exterior, stands out sharply in contrast to the sights and buildings of old Casablanca. The outer "hood" of Notre Dame de Lourdes is very large, and a cross hangs from the top of the entryway. You'll find something different if you go inside the church. Stained glass walls extend from floor to ceiling, dazzle light beams as they pass through them, and give the illusion that the glass is larger than it actually is due to light refraction. Despite the fact that the majority of Moroccans are Muslims, Casablanca has a significant Roman Catholic population, as evidenced by the existence of Notre Dame de Lourdes. The Notre Dame de Lourdes is a wonderfully beautiful location where you may easily take eye-catching pictures.
Museum of Moroccan Judaism
The Museum of Moroccan Judaism is a 2,000-year-old institution that is situated in Casablanca's oasis district. The sole Jewish museum in the Arab world is the Museum of Moroccan Judaism, a historical and anthropological institution established in 1997. You can learn more about Moroccan Jews' history, religion, traditional culture, and way of life here. The exhibitions are special since they include a lot of jewelry and other objects from other Moroccan Jews in addition to fascinating old images of Moroccan Jews. The museum also showcases historical parallels between the two religions, such as Moroccan traditional attire and Jewish's. Jewish culture is represented in museums all over the world, but the Museum of Moroccan Judaism is the only one in the Arab world.
Ain Diab
The beachside town of Ain Diab is a haven for fashion components. This beach is exceptionally pleasant and roomy, making it one of Casablanca's most well-known tourist destinations. Along Ain Diab's beachfront, the majority of upscale restaurants and hotels have been constructed, making it a well-liked location for people to congregate and unwind on sunny weekends. If you love the water, Ain Diab Beach, which is also well-liked by tourists for its comfortable summer environment, is the destination for you. You may enjoy it from sunrise to sunset here.
Rick's Cafe
If you've seen the legendary Humphrey Bogart movie Casablanca, you're probably familiar with this cafe. The movie, which is regarded as one of the best movies ever made, depicts daring and romantic espionage against the backdrop of the fighting in Casablanca, Morocco. The same-named cafe, which debuted in 2004 and was modeled after a fictional establishment in the movie, is thought to be a tribute to it. This posh location is furnished with palm trees, brass chandeliers, lighting, and cocktails just like they were in the movie. Every Sunday, the cafe also hosts jam sessions that are well-liked by musicians. In addition to champagne, other drinks including whisky, handmade cocktails, and lemon soda are served. The theme song from the movie is occasionally played in the cafe with a sophisticated piano accompaniment.
Rick's Cafe
The Morocco Mall
The Morocco Mall, the biggest shopping mall in Africa and situated at the end of the Corniche, is a must-visit for anybody who enjoys shopping. This is Morocco's retail hotspot due to the infrastructure and diversity of boutiques and brand stores. Along with its retail establishments, it is also cutting edge with a lovely musical fountain, aquarium, 3D theater, even indoor ice skating and playground to meet various needs. There are indoor and outdoor markets to select from if you want to try the flavor of Morocco. Additionally, coffee shops are certainly essential, you can locate a seat when you're tired and sip on some great coffee or freshly squeezed orange juice.
Royal Palace of Casablanca
The Habous district, also known as the New Medina, is one of Casablanca's most vibrant neighborhoods and home to the Royal Palace of Casablanca, one of Morocco's four royal palaces. It was constructed by French colonists in the 1920s and is now one of the most well-liked tourist destinations. It is a contemporary and French palace. With an open square in front of it and guards on duty, the Royal Palace of Casablanca was every bit as opulent as any other. The palace comprises gardens, courtyards, orange and palm trees, and several ornate water features. However, it would appear that these views were obscured because the palace was rarely accessible to those outside the king's social circle. However, you can stop by the corner shop to pick up some ornaments or admire the bubbling fountains in front of the huge open square.
We hope that the fascinating aspects of this city have inspired you to visit Morocco. If you are unsure about the length of your stay in the city or have any other questions about planning your trip, please do not hesitate to contact us, Odynovo looks forward to traveling to Morocco with you!
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