Casablanca, Morocco (for Marrakech)
For many, the word Casablanca conjures up Hollywood's vision of an exotic city of intrigue. But the reality is far removed from film fantasy, more complex and fascinating. Casablanca is Morocco's largest city, the busiest port in North Africa, and home to nearly four million people. An important trading center since the days of the Phoenicians, Casablanca is an evocative blend of more new than old, more familiar than exotic. It is a modern commercial city with an old heart that is home to narrow, cobbled alleys, bazaars and souks, minarets and medinas.
Casablanca is a modern city with beaches bordering the Atlantic and broad, tree-lined avenues. The city is also your gateway to Morocco's interior and the exotic "Imperial Cities" of Rabat and Marrakech.
Points of Interest
- El Bahia Palace & Djemaa-el-F'na
- Hassan II Mosque
- Mahakma Law Courts
- Habbous Quarter
- Mausoleum of King Mohammed
- Hassan Tower
- Kasbah of the Oudayas
- Chellah & Archeological Museum
More about Casablanca, Morocco (for Marrakech) Points of Interest
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El Bahia Palace & Djemaa-el-F'na -
Step back in time in exotic Marakesh and explore the impressive Eastern architecture of the 19th century palace. Stroll through the colorful market square, home to snake charmers and spice vendors.
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Hassan II Mosque -
Contemporary technology and traditional Moroccan architecture meet in this vast mosque and esplanade, built in 1993 at the sea's edge. It boasts the world's tallest minaret, towering over 650 feet.
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Mahakma Law Courts -
The Islamic law courts, the official salon of Casablanca's Pacha, are richly decorated with fine mosaics, intricately carved ceilings, and Moorish details. Discover a lovely fountain in the courtyard.
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Habbous Quarter -
Narrow streets lead to lively souks and open markets, brimming with local wares, colorful fruits, olive vendors, and spice shops. Roam the stalls, sample traditional delights, and bargain for souvenirs.
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Mausoleum of King Mohammed -
Members of the Royal Guard stand proudly at the final resting place of Morocco's great king. Enter the austere mausoleum from the white marble terrace and admire the interior's modern Islamic design.
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Hassan Tower -
The 144-foot high minaret was built in the 12th century as part of a mosque that was never completed. The tower walls are eight feet thick and interior ramps can accommodate a rider on horseback.
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Kasbah of the Oudayas -
Enjoy a relaxing stroll past whitewashed homes accented with bright blue trim and take in the spectacular vistas before visiting the older section of the city with its charming shops and cafes.
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Chellah & Archeological Museum -
Morocco's historical ties with ancient Rome are revealed within the galleries of the Archeological Museum, and at the ruins of Chellah, a prosperous Roman town that was abandoned in the 9th century.
