Casablanca Introduction

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City Introduction

The name of Casablanca derives from the Portuguese word combination meaning "White House" (branca "white", casa "house"). It is the largest city in Morocco, located in the central-western part of the country bordering the Atlantic Ocean. It is the largest city in the Maghreb, as well as one of the largest and most important cities in Africa, both economically and demographically.

Business, trade and the Moroccan dolce vita… Everything happens in Casablanca! And its dynamism is infectious.

The architectural tradition of the city endures to this day with the inauguration of the Hassan II Mosque on the 30th of August 1993. This 200m high mosque is one of the largest in the world. The hectic Mâarif district exemplifies modern Casablanca. This previously impoverished area, just west of the Arab League Park, has gradually been transformed and is now one of the most prominent neighborhoods in town. You must also visit Anfa, Casablanca's upmarket area.

From the major thoroughfares lined with palm trees and tall office buildings to the Atlantic Ocean and its view on the world, Casablanca is Morocco's economic powerhouse. This vibrant city is always on the qui vive.

Modern constructions blend with charming neighborhoods that reflect Arabic-Islamic heritage and the traces of the city’s colonial period. Take the time to explore its subtleties. Walk through the medina – one of the most recent in Morocco. Stroll through downtown to admire the Art Deco buildings and visit the Hassan II Mosque.

Natural Environment

Casablanca is located in the Chawiya Plain which has historically been the breadbasket of Morocco. Apart from the Atlantic coast, the Bouskoura Forest is the only natural attraction in the city. The forest was planted in the 20th century and consists mostly of eucalyptus, palm, and pine trees. It is located halfway to the city's international airport.

Climate

Casablanca has a warm summer Mediterranean climate. The cool Canary Current off the Atlantic coast moderates temperature variation, which results in a climate remarkably similar to that of coastal Los Angeles, with similar temperature ranges.