Casablanca

Casablanca
source
Name	Casablanca
Native name	الدار البيضاء
Settlement type	City
Coordinates	33°32′N 7°35′W
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Morocco
Subdivision type1	Region
Subdivision name1	Casablanca-Settat
Established title	Founded
Established date	7th century
Founder	Berbers
Government type	Mayor–council
Governing body	Casablanca City Council
Leader title	Mayor
Leader name	Nabila Rmili
Area total km2	220
Elevation m	115
Population total	3,499,000
Population as of	2023
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	Western European Time
Utc offset	+1
Timezone DST	Western European Summer Time
Utc offset DST	+0
Postal code type	Postal code
Postal code	20000-20200
Area code	+212
Website	www.casablanca.ma

Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco and a major economic hub on the Atlantic Ocean coast. It serves as the capital of the Casablanca-Settat region and is renowned for its distinctive blend of Moorish architecture and modern Art Deco buildings. The city's port is one of the largest artificial ports in the world, and its international airport, Mohammed V International Airport, is a primary gateway to Africa.

History

The area was originally settled by Berbers in the 7th century, known as Anfa. It became a independent kingdom and a base for Barbary pirates, leading to its destruction by the Portuguese Empire in 1468. The Portuguese rebuilt the settlement, naming it Casa Branca, before abandoning it after the 1755 Lisbon earthquake. The modern city began under Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, who rebuilt it in the late 18th century. During the French protectorate in Morocco, it was developed into a major port and commercial center under the direction of Marshal Hubert Lyautey and architect Henri Prost. It was a crucial Allied strategic point during World War II, hosting the Casablanca Conference between Franklin D. Roosevelt, Winston Churchill, and Charles de Gaulle. Following Moroccan independence, it became the economic engine of the nation.

Geography and climate

The city is located on the Chaouia plain along the Atlantic coast of North Africa. Its coastline features the large artificial port and popular beaches like Ain Diab. The urban area is largely flat, with the Bouskoura forest providing a significant green space. It experiences a hot-summer Mediterranean climate with influences from the Canary Current, leading to mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers, though the Chergui wind can bring intense heat from the Sahara.

Economy

It is the undisputed economic and financial capital of Morocco, hosting the Casablanca Stock Exchange and the headquarters of most major Moroccan companies and international corporations. Key sectors include finance, with major banks like Attijariwafa Bank, and industry, centered in zones like Aïn Sebaâ. The port is vital for trade, and the city is a leader in sectors such as information technology and manufacturing. Major commercial centers include the Morocco Mall, one of the largest in Africa.

Demographics

With a population exceeding three million, it is Morocco's most populous city. The population is predominantly Arabic-speaking, with significant usage of French and the Moroccan Darija dialect. Historically home to a large Jewish community, its demographics were shaped by significant rural migration during the 20th century. The urban area is divided into numerous districts and prefectures, such as Aïn Chock and Al Fida - Mers Sultan.

Culture

The city is a cultural melting pot, known as a center for modern Moroccan cinema, music, and art. It hosts the annual Casablanca Festival and is the birthplace of chaabi music. Its architectural heritage is a defining feature, with landmarks like the Habbous district and the Mahkama du Pacha showcasing traditional design, while the downtown area features famed Art Deco buildings. The city's cultural scene includes institutions like the Abderrahman Slaoui Museum and the Villa des Arts.

Landmarks

The most iconic landmark is the monumental Hassan II Mosque, with its towering minaret overlooking the ocean. The historic Medina of Casablanca and the adjacent United Nations Square form the old heart of the city. Notable modern sites include the Twin Center skyscrapers, the Casablanca Cathedral, and the Parc de la Ligue Arabe. The coastal Corniche is a major leisure area, lined with restaurants, clubs, and the El Hank Lighthouse.

Category:Casablanca Category:Populated places in Casablanca-Settat Category:Port cities in Morocco