Visit the Hassan II mosque, an architectural gem

Published on June 16, 2024 at 2:30 pm

The Hassan-II mosque, the largest in Morocco, is a superb example of Moorish architecture. Built on the orders of King Hassan II between 1987 and 1993, it stands on a promontory overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. A true feat of engineering, the mosque's unique architecture attracts thousands of visitors every year. Its minaret is one of the tallest in the world (210 metres), and its main prayer hall, adorned with intricate mosaics, also has a retractable roof that opens onto the sky. The monument was built using only materials from Morocco (marble, cedar wood, mosaic tiles, hand-woven carpets). It's a must-see when you're in Casablanca!

Summary

Architecture that is both modern and traditional
Practical information
Where can I sleep near the Hassan II mosque?

It's no accident that the mosque faces the sea! Hassan-II, who ordered the construction of the building, wanted it to be built near the water, in reference to the verse in the Koran: "The throne of God was on the water". Construction of the mosque began in 1986 and was completed in 1993, at a cost of 800 million dollars. The work was supervised by French architect Michel Pinseau, who was assisted by Moroccan artists. It was built on land that was once occupied by a cemetery (this has now been moved).

The forecourt of the Hassan II mosque in Casablanca

Architecture that is both modern and traditional

The Hassan II Mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture. The 210-metre-high minaret makes it the fifth-largest mosque in the world.

The prayer hall is unique of its kind: covering two hectares, it is divided into three symmetrical naves. The men's area alone can hold 20,000 people. Its roof has an incredible feature: it can be opened quickly thanks to an automatic system. When it's closed, you'll notice its intricate decoration of carved cedar wood, with gilded inscriptions tracing the family tree of King Hassan II.

Finally, you won't want to miss the carpet in the main prayer room, which is one of the largest in the world (handmade by 1,200 craftsmen). In this sumptuous room, Murano glass chandeliers hang from the ceiling and natural light streams in through stained glass windows.

Interior of the Hassan II mosque in Casablanca

Finally, in the basement, you will find two ablution rooms, one for men and the other for women. They contain 45 fountains, designed to resemble lotus flowers for those wishing to purify themselves before going into prayer.

The bathroom of the Hassan II mosque in Casablanca

Did you know?

At night, a beam of light hangs over the building, illuminating the sky. It points in the direction of Mecca.

Practical information

⏰ Opening times: the Hassan II mosque is open to the public and welcomes visitors of all faiths every day from 9am to 2pm, except on Fridays when advance booking is required (this is the busiest day at the mosque as it is the Muslim holy day). Friday prayer services take place at midday and are open to all.

👛 Entrance fee: 120 dirhams (around €12). During the tour, a guide gives details of this unusual building, explains Muslim traditions and shares his knowledge of traditional Moroccan arts.

👉 Access: The mosque is located along theBoulevard de la Corniche. As in all mosques, you must remove your shoes to enter the prayer room. Women should also avoid short or revealing outfits, and should cover their shoulders and wear a headscarf when visiting.