Casablanca: The Complete Guide

Casablanca is a dynamic coastal city that serves as Morocco’s economic and commercial heart. Unlike the country’s ancient medinas and traditional souks found in other cities, Casablanca is defined by its modern energy, wide boulevards, and a blend of Art Deco and contemporary architecture. The city’s urban rhythm is fast-paced, yet travelers will find plenty of rewarding corners to explore—from stylish cafés and galleries to peaceful palm-lined parks.

One of the city’s main attractions is the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, set dramatically on the Atlantic Ocean. Its vast prayer hall, intricate tilework, and towering minaret are a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and engineering. Visitors can take guided tours of the mosque, one of the few in Morocco open to non-Muslims, offering a rare opportunity to appreciate its spiritual and architectural beauty up close. Nearby, the Corniche area offers a contrasting vibe, where people stroll along the waterfront, enjoy beachside cafés, and experience the city’s more relaxed, coastal side.

Casablanca is also a great place to sample Morocco’s evolving culinary scene. While traditional tagines and mint tea are widely available, the city’s multicultural makeup has led to a variety of international and fusion dining options. Neighborhoods like Maarif and Gauthier are especially popular for their trendy restaurants and boutiques. Whether you’re using Casablanca as a transit hub or staying for a few days, the city offers a different, more cosmopolitan angle of Moroccan life that adds depth and contrast to any trip through the country.

History of Casablanca

Casablanca in Ancient and Medieval Times

Casablanca’s earliest origins trace back to a small Berber settlement known as Anfa, which dates to at least the 7th century BCE. Anfa developed as a modest port used by Phoenician and later Roman traders. By the Middle Ages, it had grown into a local center of commerce and was known for its strategic location on the Atlantic coast. During the 11th to 14th centuries, it was part of various Berber kingdoms and Islamic dynasties, including the Almoravids and the Merinids. The city faced frequent attacks by Portuguese and Spanish forces due to its position and resources, eventually leading to its partial destruction.

Casablanca in the Portuguese and Pre-Colonial Era

In the early 16th century, the Portuguese invaded and destroyed much of Anfa, fearing it had become a base for piracy. They rebuilt it as a military outpost named Casa Branca (meaning “White House”), though their occupation was short-lived and met with ongoing resistance from local tribes. The settlement was eventually abandoned by the Portuguese and remained in decline for several centuries. It wasn’t until the 18th century, under the rule of the Alaouite Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah, that the town was revived and renamed Dar al-Baida—translated into Spanish as Casablanca. It began to re-emerge as a trading port, slowly regaining significance in regional maritime commerce.

Casablanca in the Colonial Period

Casablanca’s modern transformation began in the early 20th century, during the French Protectorate era. The French recognized the port’s strategic and economic potential and invested heavily in urban planning and infrastructure. Casablanca grew rapidly, becoming Morocco’s principal port and an important colonial administrative center. The city’s layout was reimagined with wide boulevards, Art Deco architecture, and industrial zones, turning it into a showcase of modern colonial design. During World War II, Casablanca gained international attention as the site of the 1943 Casablanca Conference, where Allied leaders met to discuss strategies for the war and post-war Europe.

Casablanca in the Post-Independence and Modern Era

After Morocco gained independence in 1956, Casablanca remained the country’s financial and industrial capital. The city experienced rapid population growth, fueled by rural migration and economic expansion. This growth brought both opportunity and challenges, with expanding suburbs, infrastructure pressures, and social disparities. Despite these growing pains, Casablanca continued to evolve, becoming a center for Moroccan arts, culture, and business. In recent decades, projects like the Hassan II Mosque, new tram systems, and the redevelopment of the marina have reshaped the city, reaffirming its role as a symbol of modern Morocco and a major gateway between Africa and the rest of the world.

Visiting Casablanca for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Casablanca on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!

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