CasablancaOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Ancient Port to "White House"

Casablanca's history dates to at least the 7th century BC, when it was known as Anfa, a Phoenician and later Roman trading post. Its location on the Atlantic coast made it a hub for merchants and sailors. By the 14th and 15th centuries, Anfa developed under local Berber rulers, known for its maritime activity. In 1468, Portuguese forces launched a military campaign, reducing the city to ruins. They returned in 1515, building a fortified settlement over Anfa's remains and renaming it Casa Branca (White House).

The Portuguese held the city for over a century, but the Lisbon earthquake of 1755 weakened their control, leading to their abandonment of the site. Moroccan Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah (Mohammed III) reclaimed and rebuilt the city in the late 18th century, employing European architects. He renamed it Dar El Beïda, the Arabic translation of Casa Branca, which evolved into Casablanca, the name adopted by the Spanish and later the French.

French Protectorate and Modern Metropolis

Casablanca remained a modestly sized port until the 19th century, when it became a supplier of wool to Britain's textile industry. Shipping traffic increased, and by the late 1880s, the population grew to around 10,000. The most significant changes occurred under French colonial rule, which began in 1907 with the city's occupation and formally established a protectorate in 1912. The French recognized Casablanca's potential as a modern port and commercial hub, leading to rapid industrial and urban expansion.

Under French architect Henri Prost, Casablanca was redesigned with wide boulevards, European-style buildings, and modern infrastructure, blending Moroccan aesthetics with Art Deco and colonial styles. The city's economy grew, becoming Morocco's economic center. By 1914, Europeans constituted 40% of Casablanca's population, which reached 110,000 by 1921. Casablanca played a role during World War II, hosting the Casablanca Conference in 1943, where Roosevelt and Churchill strategized the next phase of the war. After Morocco gained independence in 1956, Casablanca continued its growth, becoming the modern metropolis it is today.

• —Old Medina - Bab Marrakech — This historic area of Casablanca has narrow streets and traditional shops. The medina walls and some of its oldest mosques date back to its rebuilding in the late 18th century by Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah.
• —United Nations Square — This central square connects the Old Medina and the Ville Nouvelle, showing a blend of architectural styles.
• —Central Market (exterior) — This marketplace for locals provides a view of daily commerce and local life in Casablanca. You will see a variety of goods.
• —Mohammed V Boulevard (Art Deco facade) — This boulevard has a collection of Art Deco and Neo-Moorish buildings, showing Casablanca's development during the French Protectorate in the early 20th century.
• —Villa des Arts of Casablanca (exterior) — This Art Deco villa, from the 1930s, is now a cultural institution. Its exterior shows the architectural style present in Casablanca during that era.
• —Palace of Justice (exterior) — This building on Mohammed V Square is an example of Neo-Moorish architectural style, with horseshoe arches and tile work.
• —Mohammed V Square — This administrative center of Casablanca is surrounded by post-World War I buildings, including the French Consulate, the Central Post Office, and the Bank of Morocco, all showing a blend of colonial and Moorish architecture.
• —Former Sacred Heart Cathedral (exterior) — This building with Neo-Gothic, Art Deco, and Andalusian influences was built in the first half of the 20th century. After Moroccan independence, it was deconsecrated and transformed into a cultural center.
• —Arab League Park — Casablanca's largest public park offers green spaces with trees, plants, and a long fountain flanked by palm trees.
• —Mahkama du Pacha (exterior) — This administrative building, constructed in 1942 in the Habous district, served as a courthouse. It is an example of the Neo-Moorish style with whitewashed lime plaster and green roof tiles.

The best time to visit Casablanca is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October). Temperatures are mild, ranging from 20°C to 22°C (69°F to 72°F). Rain is rare in spring, and the city is less crowded than in summer.

Summer (June to August) is warm and dry, with average daily highs above 24°C (76°F), reaching 26°C (80°F) in August. The Atlantic Ocean is warm enough for swimming. Coastal areas, especially La Corniche, can become crowded with local beachgoers and Moroccan expatriates in July and August.

Winter (December to February) brings cooler temperatures, with average daily highs below 19°C (66°F) and lows around 9°C (49°F). This is the rainiest period, with November experiencing the most rainfall. It is best to avoid November to February if you prefer to minimize rain.

Casablanca is served by Mohammed V International Airport (CMN), about 30 kilometers (19 miles) southeast of the city center. You can reach the city by train, taxi, or shuttle. The train connects the airport directly to Casa-Port and Casa-Voyageurs train stations.

Within the city, walking is suitable for exploring districts like the Old Medina or the Art Deco areas around Mohammed V Square. For longer distances, Casablanca has a tramway network that connects many key areas. Taxis are available; ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand.

Parking in the city center can be difficult. It is often easier to use public transport or taxis. While there is no widespread siesta culture, some smaller shops might close for a few hours in the afternoon. Most major attractions and shops operate standard hours. Markets, like the Central Market, are generally busiest in the mornings.