Casablanca

We had heard that there was really very little reason to visit Casablanca, which is Morocco's largest city. However, the impressive Hassan II Mosque, which is one of the few in Morocco that non-Muslims can visit, drew us to make a brief stop in the city.

First, we will say that the reports were correct. There is little reason for tourists to visit Casablanca, except if that is your point of entry. Even the famous Rick's Cafe from the movie Casablanca, is nothing more than a creation for tourists (the movie was filmed in Hollywood). We happened to walk by the cafe in our wanderings, but had no interest in entering. In addition, we found the food scene in Casablanca to be decidedly uninteresting for such a large city. Fortunately, the Hassan II Mosque did live up to our expectations.

The mosque, which sits on a promotory over the Atlantic Ocean, was built in only six years (1987-1993) involving thousands of workers and artisans. It is one of the largest mosques in the world, having the second largest minaret at 210 meters (689 feet) and allowing 105,000 people to pray together (25,000 inside and another 85,000 in the giant courtyard).

The mosque is absolutely beautiful, with colorful fountains around the outside, and huge metal doors that rise like garage doors allowing the mosque to be cooled by the sea breezes (the roof also can be opened for the same purpose). 

The prayer hall is spectacular with impressive granite, plaster, marble and wood work. With the exception of some of the marble, and 56 large, glass chandeliers, all of the materials came from Morocco. Even the basement ablution rooms are lovely. Our guide's explanations were detailed and fascinating.

It is hard to recommend a visit to a city solely for a single sight, but the Hassan II Mosque was almost worth the time we spent in Casablanca.

More soon.

Jeff and Shana