Casablanca, a Moroccan city, is renowned as the largest city in the Kingdom of Morocco, boasting a population of 3,359,818 as of 2014, making it the third-largest city in Africa, following Lagos and Cairo. It serves as Morocco’s commercial, industrial, and economic hub, hosting 60 percent of the nation’s businesses and factories, spanning various sectors including automotive, aerospace, electronics, and more. The city’s stock exchange ranks third, trailing behind Johannesburg and Cairo exchanges. Originally known as Anfa, Casablanca acquired its current name from the Portuguese, who referred to it as “Casa Branca” due to a white house they encountered upon arrival in the 1600s. The Spanish version “Casa Blanca” and the local Moroccan term “Casa” also were used. Eventually, the name Casablanca was formalized during the reign of the Alawi Sultan, Sidi Muhammad bin Abdullah.
history of Casablanca
Casablanca is an ancient Amazighvillage, and it was called Anfa, but its origin is still completely unknown. The city emerged as a significant center in the 12th century AD when pirates used it to launch attacks. Still, it was destroyed by the Portuguese in 1468 AD, before returning to it in 1515 AD, where they built a new city and named it “Casa Branca,” which means the White House. In 1755 AD, it was exposed. The town was shaken by an earthquake that led to the evacuation of its residents. Still, the Alawi Sultan Sidi Muhammad bin Abdullah soon rebuilt it in the 18th century AD. The Spaniards and other Europeans began to flock to it at that time. Most of its residents became explicitly French. In 1907, the French forces occupied the city; the city was placed under French protection between 1912-1956 AD. During that time, the town became Morocco’s main port, boosting its economy and leading to rapid growth. This helped put it on the world map as an essential and central center that isn’t immune to global events. During World War II, the city hosted the British-American summit in 1943. In 1961, the Casablanca Group of African countries was formed at a conference led by King Mohammed V of Morocco.
landmarks in Casablanca
Mosque of King Hassan II
Boulevard Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah.
The largest mosque in Morocco and the sixth-largest mosque globally, with the tallest minaret. After a construction period of seven years, it opened its doors in 1993. It is one of the two prominent mosques in Morocco accessible to non-Muslims. Beautiful interior with water features, sky-lit ceiling, huge basement steam room (not in use), and exquisite tile work. Tours are at 9 am, 10 am, 11 am, and 2 am on Saturdays and Thursdays
old medina
(north of Place des Nations Unies. There is a small traditional fortified town north of Casablanca).
It’s worth a visit if you’re in town, but it has nothing to do with the splendors of Fez or Marrakech.
The Corniche
A seaside district west of the Hassan II Mosque. It used to be a bustling resort district, with hotels on one side of Boulevard de la Corniche and nightclubs. Most have seen better days. Many newer and more elegant hotels along the Boulevard de l’Océan Atlantique. Many western fast food chains can be found along the Corniche. There’s also a new western-style movie theater here. Still, the best alternative is to stroll along the Boulevard, stopping at one of the many ocean-view cafes.
Sanctuary of Sidi Abderrahman
Built on a rocky outcrop off the coast, well beyond the Corniche, and accessible only at low tide. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the shrine, but they are welcome to visit the small medina-like community that has grown up around it. It’s best to stroll along the shore and see the stunning white walls before taxiing to less isolated areas.
Pasha’s Mahkama
M-Sat 8:00-12:00 & 14:00-18:00.
Over 60 beautiful rooms with intricately carved oak ceilings make up this Hispano-Moorish structure. Extensive stuccowork, elaborate wrought-iron fencing, and elegantly tiled floors adorn the walls. Although admission is free, entry is difficult. You will need to hire a guide to accompany you. It is worth inquiring, especially if you know French. Take the bus 81 Boulevard de Paris to get there.
Central post office
Send your postcards in style by coming here! The facade, built-in 1918, is composed of round and rectangular elements. As you approach, you can see the beautiful mosaics up close.
octagonal square
One of the best places to see contemporary Morocco is here. Business people flock to this sophisticated urban square to dine in the sun at noon. There are also plenty of opportunities to photograph beautiful landscapes.
Villa of the Arts
30, Boulevard Brahim Roudani, Casablanca (located slightly southwest of Arab League Park on Bvd Brahim Roudani), +212-(0)522 29 50 87, fax: +212-(0)522 27 86 07 9.30 am to 7 pm (except public holidays).
It is a space of the Moroccan artistic scene, managed by the organization ONA. Currently, it is available for free.
The best beaches near Casablanca
Ain Diab
Ain Diab beach is one of the main urban beaches of Casablanca, a popular destination for Moroccans to come with their families. It is located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, 3 km from the city. People come here to swim, surf, walk along the beach, or sit in a coastal cafe just admiring the picturesque sunset and the power of the ocean waves.
Monica
Monica is a natural beach on the Atlantic coast between Rabat and Casablanca. It is a strip of sand untouched by civilization, surrounded by stones and the ocean. The presence of constant surf has made this beach popular with surfers and bodyboard enthusiasts. The only drawback of the beach is its traps, which can be pretty dangerous for those who go there for the first time.
Entertainment in Casablanca
Sindibad Park
Sindibad is an amusement park that promises adventure, joy, and new sensations. The visitor will be exposed to various games in this park, from the easiest to the most difficult. The games offered are suitable for different ages. A catering offer is accessible there with a secure and modern space.
AquaPark
The largest water park in the Kingdom. It is 10,000 m2 of permanently treated and filtered water in the middle of a landscaped area of 7.5 hectares.
Megarama
The Casablanca Megarama, 1st multiplex in Morocco, is a cinema complex offering an updated program with the latest international films and Moroccan productions.
What to eat in Casablanca?
We see you coming: Couscous, Tagine… Indeed, it is unimaginable to visit Casa without tasting the famous Tagine or couscous. So to calm your ardor, nothing better than going to a greasy spoon at Place des Nations-Unies, preferably on Friday lunchtime (couscous day), and a glass of quail milk to accompany your meal.
But these two dishes are only some of what Moroccan food is about. Stop by the “Bennis Habous” pastry shop in New Medina to try tasty Moroccan sweets like gazelle horns, almond rusks, and a good chicken pastilla.
Go to “Al Mounia,” a typical Moroccan restaurant where waiters dressed in traditional clothes will show you how good the local food is. It’s a quiet place in this busy city. Lastly, if you want to try fish and shellfish, go to “La Taverne du Dauphin” near the Corniche and open the door to taste fresh products in a lively room.
Getting around Casablanca
Casablanca is a reasonably large city. And even if it is easy to find your way around, getting around on foot takes work. For this, taxis remain the most used means of transport. The “Petit Taxi” (red taxis) swarm the streets. It is not difficult to find them and allows you to go everywhere in Casablanca, for a fair amount (about 2 or 3 euros). The team is another way to get around. It is convenient and modern and will take you to the most desirable places in the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called Casablanca in Morocco?
The Amazigh people who lived in Casablanca, Morocco, used to call their city “Anfa.” In the 1400s, the Portuguese took over the city. It was called “Casa Branca,” which means “white house” in Portuguese because most homes there were white. The name “Casa Branca” was changed to “Casablanca” when France took over Morocco at the beginning of the 20th century.
The French made Casablanca their main governmental center and invested heavily in its growth. They made this city the biggest in Morocco and one of the most important places in North Africa. The city’s economy grew, and it became a center for business and trade, a place where things were made, and a point of interest.
Casablanca has a lot of modern buildings, busy markets, and lively nightlife. People come from all over the world to see Morocco’s still-important center for business and culture.
What is Casablanca Morocco known for?
Casablanca and Marrakech are both towns in Morocco but very different. Each has its style and attractions.
Casablanca is Morocco’s biggest and capital city. It’s known for its city feel, modern buildings, and busy harbor. Most people who come to the city go to the ancient medina, the Hassan II Mosque, and the beachfront on the Corniche. That’s because there are many new stores, bars, and coffee shops, and the air feels more businesslike and industrial.
On the other hand, Marrakech is a more traditional city known for its lively atmosphere, busy souks, and beautiful old buildings. Most people have heard of the Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Mosque, and the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. You can also visit the nearby Atlas Mountains if you want to see beautiful nature.
Both places are in Morocco, but their cultures, buildings, and general feel differ.
Casablanca on the Map
