Attractions
Hassan II Mosque
The enormous, seaside Hassan II Mosque is one of the world’s largest religious buildings. More than 100,000 people can visit between the mosque and surrounding courtyard, built by French architect Michel Pinseau. The mosque, which opened in 1993, is made almost entirely of Moroccan materials. Highlights include the 210m tall minaret, the world’s tallest, the prayer halls’ sliding roof and a laser beam that shines toward Mecca.
Address: Sour Djedid at Boulevard Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah.
Admission: Free.
Tours: Guided tours are offered throughout the day to non-Muslim visitors. Be sure to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.
Casablanca Twin Centre
A taste of the modern in this historic city, the Casablanca Twin Centre was designed by Spain’s Ricardo Bofill Levi. The 100m-high complex houses offices, shopping malls, a five-star hotel and a conference centre right in the centre of the city’s commercial centre.
Address: Boulevard Zerktouni at Boulevard Al-Massira.
Admission: Free.
The Medinas
The area known as the Old Medina includes an 18th century fortress, a jewellery market, and gates from the old town walls. The New Medina was created in the 1930s and is also known as Quartier Habous. The small squares and narrow streets are often lined with flowers and lead to nearby palace Mahakma du Pacha, known for its ornate decoration.
Address: Old Medina – Between Boulevard des Almohades and Place Mohammed V; New Medina: Near Boulevard Victor Hugo.
Admission: Free.
Musée du Judaisme Marocain (The Jewish Museum)
Notable for being the only Jewish museum in any Muslim country, this modern building in suburban Oasis houses artifacts and books reflecting the Jewish community’s participation in Morocco’s history.
Address: 81 rue Chasseur Jules Gros, Casablanca Oasis.
Telephone: (522)994940.
Website:www.casajewishmuseum.com
Admission: Charge.
Place Mohammed V (former Place des Nations Allies)
The heart of Casablanca, this square has gone through many name changes throughout the years. But it remains a busy area of cafés and souvenir shops, with a clock tower looming over all. Boulevard Houphouët Boigny runs from the square to the port, lined with shops and restaurants.
Address: Place Mohammed V.
Admission: Free.
