If you are on the verge of choosing your next traveling destination, put Casablanca or Dar-Al-Baida, on your list and you will not regret it. Recognized as one of the most progressive cities in Morocco, Casablanca is also the largest, with a population of no less than 3 million people. Most of us are familiar with this location from the well-known movie with the same name, featuring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman. What the movie doesn’t show is an amazing history hiding behind the cultural heritage and architectural beauty. Located on the Atlantic Coast, the city is a unique combination of Moroccan culture and Western civilization.

The largest mosque

Talking about mosques in Casablanca is talking about superlatives. King Hassan II Mosque is known as the third largest in the world. It is also the largest mosque in Morocco and fortunately for travelers passionate by religion and culture, it is open to non-Muslims who wish to visit the wonderful interior.

Among the less known details about the history of the city is the fact that it has been redesigned in the 20th century by Henri Prost to whom the city has to give thanks for its wide boulevards, parks and modern looks that embrace the Moroccan city into a strong European light.

Medina, old and new

Traveling Casablanca, you will hear about the Medina and about the new Medina, two distinct areas in the city. The first refers to the oldest side of the town that can be visited walking towards the north part, near the port. If you are interested in shopping, you can find here interesting traditional products at affordable prices. It is the perfect place to get to know a little bit about Moroccan lifestyle while visiting their souks and workshops.

New Medina or nouvelle Medina, also known as Quartier Habous on the other hand, has been built in 1930 by the French and it has all of the Moroccan traditional architecture combined with modern facilities. Located at approximately 1 km southeast of town, new Medina is a place of bargaining and hassle and also a place to make good deals.

The beauty of justice

One of the main attractions in Casablanca is Mahkama du Pacha or Pasha’s courthouse which is a wonderful building, currently used for administrative activities. Built between 1948 and 1852 in Moorish style, it is one of touristic attractions difficult to enter mainly because it is in use as a court of justice. The interior is nevertheless amazing starting from the carved cedar wood that covers the ceiling and ending with the beautiful polychromatic mosaic. You will also love the white columns made of marble that complete the graceful image of the interior. If you like taking pictures, Mahkama du Pacha will offer you interesting angles, perfect natural light and unique color combinations.

Truly, compared with Marrakesh or Fes, Casablanca might seem a little hard to appreciate. That is why travelers who have experienced most of the Moroccan cities, recommend starting with Casablanca which is ideal for your first steps in Moroccan culture, tradition and life. With its more relaxed markets where you can start to understand and practice the Moroccan style of bargaining and its beautiful buildings, Casablanca is still a precious destination to add to your African experience.