Photo by Fahad Al Rabbani Jillani on Unsplash (@fahadalrabbani)
Hassan II Mosque
Casablanca-Settat
The Hassan II Mosque, located in Casablanca, Morocco, is a monumental religious structure completed in 1993. It is the second largest mosque in Africa and among the largest globally, with a capacity to hold 105,000 worshippers-25,000 inside the prayer hall and 80,000 on the mosque's grounds. Its minaret is the tallest in the world at 210 meters, topped with a laser beam directed towards Mecca. Designed by French architect Michel Pinseau under King Hassan II's guidance, the mosque showcases exceptional Moroccan artistry, including handcrafted marble walls, intricate zellige tilework, and a retractable roof. The mosque is uniquely positioned partly over the Atlantic Ocean on a platform built on reclaimed land, symbolizing the Quranic verse that God's throne is on the water. The complex also includes a madrasa, hammams, a Moroccan history museum, conference halls, and a vast Islamic library. The mosque's courtyard features 41 decorated fountains and well-maintained gardens, popular for family gatherings. Its architectural grandeur and cultural significance make it a landmark symbolizing Morocco's religious devotion and artistic heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to wear modest clothing covering shoulders and knees, as the mosque is an active place of worship. Guided tours are available at scheduled times and include the prayer hall, minaret hall, and ablution area. It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially for VIP or group visits, and to remove shoes before entering. The best visiting times are mornings and afternoons from Saturday to Thursday, with limited hours on Fridays. Photography is restricted inside, and visitors should respect silence and security boundaries during tours.
Interesting facts
- •The mosque's minaret is the tallest in the world at 210 meters and features a laser that projects a beam towards Mecca visible up to 30 kilometers away.
- •Over 3,300 Moroccan artisans contributed to the mosque's intricate decorations, including carpentry, plasterwork, and zellige tilework.
- •The mosque can accommodate 105,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest religious buildings globally.
- •The building is partially constructed over the Atlantic Ocean on a platform reclaimed from the sea, protected by two large breakwaters.
- •The mosque complex includes a large Islamic library considered one of the most comprehensive in the Islamic world.
History
The Hassan II Mosque was commissioned by King Hassan II in 1980 as a grand monument to symbolize Morocco's religious and cultural pride.
Construction began in 1986 and took seven years, involving over 10,000 Moroccan artisans and craftsmen.
Initially intended as a mausoleum for King Mohammed V, the project evolved into a grand mosque built partially over the Atlantic Ocean, reflecting the king's vision of a mosque on the water.
The mosque was inaugurated in 1993, coinciding with the anniversary of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth.
Its construction was a major engineering feat, including building breakwaters and a platform to protect against ocean waves, and it remains a symbol of Moroccan craftsmanship and Islamic architecture.
Place Guide
Prayer Hall1993
The main prayer hall covers 2 hectares and can hold up to 25,000 worshippers. It features handcrafted marble walls, intricate wood and plaster carvings, and a retractable roof allowing natural light and air.
Minaret Hall1993
The minaret, standing at 210 meters, is the tallest in the world. The hall at its base serves as an entry point and showcases architectural details. The minaret is topped with a laser beam directed towards Mecca, symbolizing spiritual guidance.
Ablution Hall1993
This hall is dedicated to the ritual washing before prayers. It features traditional Moroccan design elements and is part of the mosque's spiritual and functional layout.
Courtyard and Fountains
The mosque's courtyard includes 41 decorated fountains and expansive gardens. It is a popular spot for visitors and locals for relaxation and family picnics.
Contact
Phone: 05 22 48 28 86
