Casablanca may lack some diversity though there are a few places of interest in the city. For one, the
Hassan II Mosque is the gigantic Islamic structure that’s almost seen everywhere you are in town, seated right next to the Atlantic Ocean. It’s the largest mosque in Morocco and third in the world, which can house up to more than 100,000 worshipers with its 9-hectare complex.
Coming off an insane 24-hour flight from Manila, I first landed in Casablanca, the biggest city in Morocco located west and known as a common hub of international and domestic flights in the country. As it was obviously a long and tiring flight, I intended to rest for a while in Casablanca where I spent a full day exploring it. On the next day, the Hassan II Mosque was one of the interesting places I visited.
The mosque was named after King Hassan II, the king of Morocco who reigned from 1961-1999. Though under his name, it was built for his father, Mohammed V, and served as a mausoleum for the late sultan.
Majority of this mosque is made up of granite especially the flooring, so some visitors (even non-Muslims) walk around barefoot as the tiles are cool to the feet.
The wall paintings and carvings are inspired by traditional Moroccan design, combined with Arabic and Moorish art that’s very particular on colorful and patterned designs.
Unlike other mosques highlighted by huge domes, the Hassan II Mosque is drawn up by this tall minaret standing at around 200 meters. This minaret, intended to face the Mecca, is considered as one of the tallest minarets in the world.
Entering the mosque runs on a schedule under a guided tour for MAD 120 (USD 13). Silence must be observed all the time. For dress code, women should not expose the knees and shoulders.
Touring outside the mosque, with all the interesting architecture, is free though.
There’s no nearby mass transport in Hassan II Mosque, so most visitors either ride a petit taxi (red metered taxi) or take a 20-minute walk from Casa Port, which is the nearest train station from the mosque and the last station coming from Mohammed V International Airport.
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