Discover Casablanca

Casablanca brings together architecture, urban history and art. In the city center, wide boulevards and spacious squares shape the cityscape; the Medina and the Habous Quarter reflect different historical influences. The city is also home to striking individual buildings and the Villa des Arts. If you’re looking for a hotel in Casablanca, you could first consider which of these sides of the city you’d like to shape your stay in particular.

Boulevards and distinctive buildings

In the city center, Art Deco buildings line the spacious squares. The wide boulevards and this architecture are reminders of the former colonial rule. This means you can focus not only on individual buildings, but also on the interplay of streets, squares and buildings. This citywide perspective complements a closer look at individual architectural features.

The Mahkama du Pacha, also called Pacha du Habous, is an example of Moorish architecture. This traditional Moroccan courthouse stands out for its elegant arches and delicate ornamentation. The buildings on Boulevard Mohammed V offer a different set of forms to consider: the Bourse du Commerce and Maroc Soir are described as distinctive, with rounded or imposing forms. Comparing them takes you from the arches and ornamentation of the Mahkama to the characteristic forms of these two buildings.

The Bessonneau building, known as the Lincoln Hotel after the hotel housed there, offers another architectural connection. According to the description, it was the first example of combining a monumental, austere European structure with delicate Moroccan architecture and ornamentation. The building therefore adds a combination of different architectural styles to the other examples.

The Medina and Habous: different historical influences

Casablanca’s Medina was rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake and is considered the youngest medina in the country. The reconstruction provides a specific point in time to consider if you’re interested in the history of the neighborhoods. Its designation as the youngest medina refers to a comparison within the country.

The Habous Quarter, also known as the New Medina, was built between 1918 and 1955 to accommodate migrants arriving from across Morocco. In this historic quarter, winding streets, Moorish architecture and busy everyday life come together. The Medina and Habous reflect different historical trajectories: the former is associated with reconstruction after the 1755 earthquake, while the latter dates to the period between 1918 and 1955 and was built for the stated purpose of accommodating new arrivals.

Art and getting around

The Villa des Arts adds art and events to the architectural themes. Visitors can discover paintings, sculptures and installations there, as well as attend gatherings and performances. It offers a different cultural focus from exploring buildings and neighborhoods. If you’re planning a visit, please check current access arrangements in advance.

The operator currently describes Casatramway and Casabusway as ways to get around Casablanca; information about the network may change. If you’re including several of the topics mentioned in your plans, getting your bearings around the city is part of the process too. Check the operator’s latest information before traveling.

Discover more destinations: Mohammedia, Aïn Harrouda, Dar Bouazza, El Mansouria, Bouskoura, Ben Yakhlef, Nouaceur, Mediouna

Go to the main travel overview: Grand Casablanca.