unveilingmorocco

Standing on a rocky promontory where the Atlantic waves crash against its base, the Hassan II Mosque is Casablanca’s most iconic silhouette. As one of the largest mosques in the world, it represents the pinnacle of Moroccan craftsmanship, bridging the gap between ancient Islamic traditions and 20th-century engineering.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a spiritual seeker, this “Casablanca Giant” is a destination that demands to be seen.

📜 A Vision of Majesty

Commissioned by King Hassan II to commemorate his 60th birthday, construction began in 1980 and took over seven years of relentless labor. It was a national project that united the country; over 10,000 master artisans (Maâlems) from every corner of Morocco converged in Casablanca to carve wood, hand-cut Zellij tiles, and polish marble. Officially inaugurated in 1993, it remains a symbol of Morocco’s modern identity.

🏗️ Architectural Wonders

The mosque is a masterpiece designed by French architect Michel Pinseau, but its heart is purely Moroccan.

• The Minaret: Standing at 210 meters, it was for a long time the tallest in the world. At night, a laser beam atop the minaret reaches 30 kilometers toward Mecca, acting as a spiritual lighthouse.
• The Retractable Roof: In a feat of modern engineering, the massive roof of the prayer hall can open in just minutes, allowing worshippers to pray under the stars or the warm Moroccan sun.
• The Glass Floor: Located in the basement level (in the ablution area), a glass floor allows visitors to look down at the Atlantic Ocean, reflecting the Quranic verse: “The throne of God was upon the water.”

✨ The Interior: A Symphony of Craft

The prayer hall is a vast, breathtaking space that can hold 25,000 worshippers, with an additional 80,000 on the outdoor esplanade. Inside, the senses are overwhelmed by:

• Murano Glass Chandeliers: Massive, sparkling fixtures that illuminate the intricate cedarwood ceilings of the Middle Atlas.
• Hand-Carved Stucco: Delicate “lace” work in plaster that covers the walls.
• Zellij Tilework: Millions of hand-cut clay tiles forming perfect geometric stars.

🚶‍♂️ How to Visit

The Hassan II Mosque is one of the few active mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslim visitors through mandatory guided tours.

• Hours: Tours usually run several times a day (except Fridays and prayer times).
• Etiquette: Dress modestly (knees and shoulders covered). You will be asked to remove your shoes at the entrance (bags are provided).
• Photography: Photography is allowed and highly encouraged—every angle is a masterpiece!

🧭 Stand Between the Sea and the Sky

Seeing the Hassan II Mosque from a distance is beautiful, but standing inside its colossal hall as the sea breeze drifts through is an experience you will never forget.

Ready to explore Casablanca’s crowning jewel?

Join our “Casablanca: The White City Highlights” tour! We provide skip-the-line tickets for the mosque, an expert guide to explain the secret symbols in the tilework, and a sunset walk along the Corniche for the best photos of the mosque reflecting in the water.

BOOK YOUR CASABLANCA TOUR

Short on time? Download our “Casablanca 1-Day Itinerary” below to see the Mosque, the Art Deco district, and the best seafood lunch spots in the city!