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Casablanca

A Vibrant City on the Atlantic Coast

Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and the country’s economic and business center. Located on the North African Atlantic seaboard, Casablanca is a cosmopolitan and dynamic city that combines modernity and tradition. Casablanca has a rich and diverse history, culture, and architecture, as well as a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. In this article, we will explore some of the aspects that make the city an appealing destination for travelers.

History of Casablanca

Casablanca’s origin dates back to the 7th century BC, when it was likely settled by the Amazigh (Berber) people. The name “Casablanca” originates from the Portuguese term “Casa Branca,” meaning “White House,” named after they demolished the original village of Anfa in 1468. The Portuguese utilized the city as a key port and a hub for their African exploration and trade endeavors.

In the 18th century, Sultan Mohammed III of the Alaouite dynasty reconstructed the city and renamed it “Dar al-Bayda,” which means “White House” in Arabic. This transformation marked a prosperous era for the city, drawing merchants, travelers, and scholars from diverse backgrounds and regions. Casablanca played a significant role in the modern history of Morocco and the world. In the 19th and 20th centuries, this latter was a hub for the resistance against the French colonial rule, as well as the nationalist and independence movements. Casablanca also hosted the famous Casablanca Conference in 1943, where the Allied leaders Winston Churchill, Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Charles de Gaulle met to discuss the strategy for World War II. Casablanca became the capital of Morocco in 1956, after the country gained its independence from France. Since then, Casablanca has continued to grow and develop, becoming the economic, industrial, and financial heart of Morocco.

Geography of Casablanca

Casablanca is located on the western coast of Morocco, facing the Atlantic Ocean. It lies on the Chaouia plain, a fertile and flat region that extends from the Atlas Mountains to the sea. The climate of Casablanca is Mediterranean, with mild and rainy winters and warm and dry summers. The average annual temperature is around 18°C, and the average annual rainfall is around 400 mm. The city covers an area of about 386 km2, and has a population of about 3.71 million in the urban area, and over 4.27 million in Greater Casablanca, making it the most populous city in the Maghreb region, and the eighth-largest in the Arab world.
 
Casablanca is a major port and transportation hub, with the Port of Casablanca being one of the largest artificial ports in Africa, and the third-largest port in North Africa, after Tanger-Med and Port Said. Casablanca also has the Mohammed V International Airport, the busiest airport in Morocco, and the Casablanca Tramway, a modern and efficient public transport system that connects the different parts of the city.

Population and Culture of dar el bida

Casablanca has a diverse and multicultural population, that reflects the city’s history and openness. The majority of the inhabitants are Moroccans, who speak the Moroccan Arabic dialect, and practice Islam. The Moroccans have a rich and varied culture, that includes music, dance, art, literature, and cuisine. The Moroccans are known for their hospitality, tolerance, and sense of humor.
 
Another group of people that live in Casablanca are the Amazigh (Berber), who speak the Tamazight language, and have their own customs and traditions. The Amazigh are the original inhabitants of Morocco, and have a long history of resistance and resilience. The Amazigh have a distinctive identity, that is expressed through their clothing, jewelry, tattoos, and symbols.
 
A third group of people that live in Casablanca are the foreigners, who come from different countries and backgrounds. The foreigners include Europeans, Americans, Africans, Asians, and Arabs, who work, study, or visit Casablanca. The foreigners bring their own languages, religions, and cultures, and contribute to the diversity and dynamism of the city.

Casablanca landmarks

Casablanca has several landmarks that are worth visiting, both natural and cultural. Some of the most popular ones are:
 
Hassan II Mosque:
Africa’s largest mosque, completed in 1993.
Features a 210-meter-high minaret, retractable roof, and intricate mosaics.
Welcomes up to 105,000 worshippers and visitors of all faiths.

Habous Quarter (New Medina):

Blends Moroccan and French styles.

Explore narrow streets, arcades, and courtyards.

Find authentic souvenirs like leather goods, carpets, and spices.

Morocco Mall:

Africa’s largest shopping mall (250,000 m²).

Shops, restaurants, cinema, aquarium, ice rink, and theme park.

Enjoy panoramic ocean views along the 1-km-long promenade.

Rick’s Café:

Inspired by the movie

Casablanca.Recreates the film’s ambiance with a piano, fireplace, and memorabilia.

Serves Moroccan and international dishes amidst classic tunes.

Casablanca is a fascinating city, that offers a unique opportunity to discover the Moroccan culture, history, and lifestyle, as well as the modern and global aspects of the city. The latter is a city that has something for everyone, whether it is sightseeing, shopping, dining, or entertainment. Casablanca is a city that will surprise you, and make you fall in love with it. If you are interested in visiting the city, and experiencing its wonders, you can contact https://moroccotravelexperience.com, a reliable and professional travel agency that will help you plan your trip and make it a memorable one. Don’t miss this chance to explore Casablanca, a vibrant city on the Atlantic coast.

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