Casablanca
The setting of a Bogart classic, home to Africa’s largest port and the largest mosque outside Mecca Casablanca is a hugely important city. A mix of art deco, contemporary, and Moorish architecture contrasts the cool palm tree lined boulevards and quiet parks that surround the medina. The city’s corniche provides a break for both locals and tourists from the hustle and bustle and leads to the Hassan II Mosque. The mosque’s minaret is the tallest structure in Morocco and dominates the city’s skyline.
The city of Casablanca is however very different to the studio based film that brought its fame and trade and industry mark what is a cosmopolitan city with a surrounding area that is a must see on any trip to Morocco.
Casablanca holiday highlights
- Completed in 1993 and located on the shores of the ocean, Hassan II Mosque is the third largest religious monument in the world.
- Inland, the historical Medina is flanked to the north by the remains of the 18th century walls. The biggest park in the city, Parc de La Ligue Arabe, is French in design but African influenced in the flora.
- Sixty three miles south of Casablanca is El Jadida. The city was held for 250 years by the Portuguese who built the fortress and moat around the medina. Although it was mostly rebuilt in 1815, original remains of the city still stand. Its lanes and ramparts are still visible; including the underground pillared cistern that was used as a setting in Orson Welles’ Othello.
Regardless of the size of your budget, you can find a superb place to enjoy a meal in Casablanca. Generally accepted as the best place to eat when in Morocco, Casablanca has a large variety of traditional, seafood, and take-away eateries.
