Casablanca

Casablanca is the largest city in North Africa and the economic and financial capital of Morocco.

Dar al-Bayda (in Arabic)

The largest city of Morocco, and also known as Casablanca.  It is located on the Atlantic coast, in the central-western part of Morocco. 

Population

The city has a population of about 3.7 Million people in the urban are and 4.27 million in the greater area.   

Casablanca is considered the economic, industrial, and business center of Morocco.   

It is Morocco’s chief port and one of the largest artificial ports in the world. It hosts the primary naval base for the Royal Moroccan Navy.

History

Before the 15th century the settlement was called Anfa and called that till the mid 1800’s.   The area was founded and settled by the Berbers by at least the 7th century BC. It was used as a port by the Phoenicians and later, the Romans. Several countries have governed including Berber, Roman, Arab, Portuguese, Spanish, French, British, and Moroccan regimes. 

Casablanca was the site of a large American air base, which was the staging area for all American aircraft for the European Theater of Operations during World War II.

Things to do: 

Hassan II Mosque

Admire the Architecture that includes neo-Moorish (Mouresque), Art Deco, Art Nouveau.

Medina: dates from the early 19th century.

Beaches: The Corniche: along the Atlantic shore from Hassan II Mosque to the beach front district of Ain Diab, home to luxury hotels and restaurants. You can get a train to Ain Diab from central Casablanca.  Mohammedia, a seaside city about 28 kl north of Casablanca, has a more relaxed atmosphere and laid back charm.  There are regular train connections with Casablanca.

Cathedrals of du Sacre Coeur (blend of European and Moroccan styles) and Notre Dame de Lourdes with it’s beautiful stained glass.

Shopping: Central Market, in its city center, this is where locals buy and sell everything from fresh produce to household supplies.  There are inexpensive restaurants here that serve heaping portions of traditional Moroccan dishes.                               

Souq Haboos: souveniers: traditional Moroccan handicrafts, carpets, and ceramic tiles.

Museums: Museum of Moroccan Judaism in the tranquil, well-to-do neighborhood of Oasis, dedicated to the history of Moroccan Jewish history.

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