Casablanca
Casablanca
Here are some of the best things to see and do in Casablanca, Morocco:
Visit the Hassan II Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, located on the Atlantic Ocean, famous for its 200-meter-high minaret and spectacular architecture.
Explore the Corniche: A boulevard along the sea, ideal for strolling, biking, or enjoying the view of the ocean.
Explore the Old Medina district: The historic center of Casablanca, where you can see traditional buildings, shops, and colorful markets.
Visit the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art: This museum houses a collection of Moroccan and international art, ranging from painting to sculpture to photography.
Stroll in the Arab League Park: A large public park with gardens, fountains, and playgrounds for children.
Taste local cuisine: Casablanca is famous for its fresh seafood, tajines, and delicious pastries. Many restaurants offer authentic Moroccan cuisine.
Go shopping: Casablanca is known for its traditional markets, such as the souk of the Old Medina and the central market, as well as its modern shopping malls.
Discover Casablanca’s Art Deco buildings: The city has numerous Art Deco buildings, such as the Rialto cinema and the State Bank building.
The gastronomy of Casablanca, the largest city in Morocco and a significant economic center, reflects the diversity of Moroccan cuisine, with international influences due to the cosmopolitan nature of the city. Here are some iconic culinary specialties of Casablanca:
Couscous: Like in all of Morocco, couscous is a highly appreciated staple in Casablanca. It is usually served with a variety of vegetables, meats (chicken, lamb, or beef), and a flavored broth.
Pastilla (Bastilla): This delicious layered pastry filled with meat (chicken, pigeon, or seafood), almonds, eggs, and spices is also very popular in Casablanca.
Fish and Seafood: As a coastal city, Casablanca is renowned for its fresh seafood and delightful fish, such as sea bass, gilt-head bream, shrimp, mussels, and calamari. Seafood restaurants near the port are highly favored by locals and visitors.
Bissara: A thick and nourishing soup made from split peas, olive oil, garlic, and spices, usually served with a drizzle of argan oil.
Kebabs: Marinated meat skewers, often beef, lamb, or chicken, grilled and served with traditional bread and vegetables.
Tangia: A traditional dish from Marrakech, tangia is also popular in Casablanca. It is a kind of tajine prepared with marinated lamb and slowly cooked in a clay pot.
Mint Tea (Maghrebi Tea): Like in the rest of Morocco, mint tea is a must-have in Casablanca. It is served in small glasses with fresh mint leaves and a generous amount of sugar.
Moroccan Pastries: Casablanca offers a variety of delicious Moroccan pastries, such as gazelle horns, briouats (stuffed pastries), ghriba (shortbread cookies), and many more.
Tajine: Besides traditional variations, Casablanca offers more modern tajines with innovative ingredients and creative presentations.
Artisanal Ice Cream: Casablanca also provides delicious artisanal ice creams, perfect for cooling down during hot summer days.
While visiting Casablanca, you will have the opportunity to taste a variety of flavorful dishes, both traditional and innovative, and enjoy the culinary diversity that this dynamic city has to offer.
Here are some statistics about Casablanca:
Population: According to the 2014 census, Casablanca has a population of approximately 3.36 million inhabitants, making it the most populous city in Morocco.
Area: Casablanca covers an area of about 220 km².
Economy: Casablanca is the most significant economic city in Morocco. It represents approximately one-third of the country’s GDP and serves as the primary commercial and financial center. It is also the largest commercial port in the country.
Tourism: Casablanca is one of the main tourist destinations in Morocco, attracting visitors from around the world to explore its historical sites, culture, cuisine, and lively atmosphere.
Transport: Casablanca has a well-developed public transportation system, including a network of trams, buses, and taxis. It also has a large international airport, Mohammed V Airport, serving domestic and international destinations.
Languages: The official language of Morocco is Arabic, but French is also widely used in Casablanca as a language for work, commerce, and communication.
Religion: The main religion in Casablanca is Islam, but there is also a small Christian and Jewish community.
Climate: Casablanca has a Mediterranean climate, with hot and dry summers and mild and humid winters. Average temperatures range from 13°C in winter to 25°C in summer.
