Casablanca
Cultural
Mosque of deep history
Morocco’s largest mosque, and 13th largest in the world. Morocco’s project that put it on a pedestal. Every single Moroccan contributed to building the Hassan II Mosque, and it remains as an eternal, holy pride. It was completed in 1993
Its minaret reaches 210 metres and directed towards Mecca. This 60-stories high minaret is equipped with a laser, shooting across the Atlantic Ocean. The Hassan II Mosque can huddle up to 25,000 worshippers - inside. Another 80,000 can pray outside on its terrace
Rick’s cafe
Since the movie Casablanca came out, it was evident to have a theme bar and café that recreates the movie. Humphrey Bogart did not only give the people a fantastic movie, but his movie was the main inspiration for Rick’s Café. The classic bar is set in an old courtyard mansion, built against the old Medina.Â
The bar has an authentic 1930’s Pleyel piano and the pianist is always taking requests. The decorative aspect of the bar puts attendees in an exciting, nostalgic mood. Classic-movie fanatics are glad and appreciative to the fact that Humphrey Bogard and Ingrid Bergman went with Morocco, especially Casablanca, as the chosen city - and title - for their movie
Royal Palace
Casablanca’s Royal Palace, much like all palaces in Morocco, is decorated with luxurious Arab-Muslim architecture and lavish decorations. Casablanca’s Royal Palace is considered a landmark thanks to its role in hosting many important events; such as the Islamic Conference of 1969, and Pope John Paul’s visit in 1985 - which was a one of a kind visit. Other notable events such as the Arson of the Al Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem, has also made it stand out among other venues and palaces.
Habous District
Built between 1918 and 1955, the Habous District of Casablanca endured flocking numbers of migrants.
During the French protectorate, 1920-1930, Marshal Lyautey wanted to define ‘allowed zones’ for Moroccans. He had Albert Laprade plan the district’s design in 1917, before forwarding it to the deputy of Henri Prost, then August Cadet.Â
The Habous District took Moroccan merchants and their families from all over Morocco, making them completely separate to the French, in Morocco.
Jewish Heritage
New mellah
Although the Jewish population in Morocco has decreased drastically over the past decades, few still embrace Morocco as their home; mostly living in Casablanca. The city has over 30 synagogues, and there are over 5,000 people of Jewish descent living in Casablanca.
Jewish heritage is still thriving with numerous monuments around the city, as well as Kosher restaurants that appease Moroccan-Jews and their laws. The late king has extended a helping hand to the Jewish community in Morocco, ensuring them of peacefulness, co-existence, and harmony. Since that statement, it has been nothing but that.
The Jewish quarter in Casablanca, or Mellah, is relatively new when compared to other Jewish quarters in Morocco. Although, its synagogues can seat for up to 500 worshippers at any given time.
Visiting the Mellah and discovering a huge part of Moroccan history will surely be a plus to your ‘things done’ list
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