Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca: Tours, History & Tips
The Hassan II Mosque is Casablanca's greatest landmark and one of the largest religious buildings in the world. Built on a rocky platform jutting into the Atlantic, it combines traditional Moroccan craftsmanship with modern engineering. It is also one of the few mosques in Morocco that non-Muslims can enter on a guided tour.
At a glance
- Completed
- 1993
- Architect
- Michel Pinseau
- Minaret height
- 210 m
- Capacity
- About 25,000 inside, 80,000 with the esplanade
- Visits
- Guided tours for non-Muslims
In this guide
History and design
King Hassan II launched the project in the 1980s, and the mosque was completed in 1993 after about six years of construction, with thousands of Moroccan artisans working on the carving, plaster and tilework. Funded partly by public donations, it was designed by the French architect Michel Pinseau. Part of the prayer hall extends over the ocean, and sections of the floor are glass.
What to see
- The minaret: at 210 metres, one of the tallest in the world; a laser beam points towards Mecca at night.
- The prayer hall: an enormous space with a retractable roof, marble columns and carved cedar ceilings.
- The ablution and hammam areas: beneath the main hall, with marble fountains and traditional bathing rooms. See our hammam guide.
- The esplanade: a huge plaza with views of the ocean and the mosque.
Guided tours
Tours for non-Muslims are offered most days, outside prayer times, and last around 45 minutes to an hour. Book ahead or arrive early, and check the schedule and fees before your visit, as they change. Dress modestly, with shoulders and knees covered. Women do not need to cover their hair for the tour.
Getting there
The mosque stands on the seafront west of the city centre. Taxis are the easiest way, or take the tram and walk. See our Casablanca guide for more sights, and religion in Morocco for etiquette.
Engineering and craft
The mosque was built by about 10,000 workers and 6,000 craftsmen, who produced the carved wood, plasterwork, marble and zellige that cover the interior. The prayer hall has a retractable roof that can open in good weather, and sections of heated floors keep worshippers warm in winter. A glass floor panel allows visitors to see the ocean beneath.
Visiting tips
- Book tours in advance in busy seasons, and arrive early.
- Take a jacket, since the esplanade is windy and cool.
- Remove shoes at the entrance and carry them in a bag provided.
- Photography is generally allowed inside the tour areas but not during prayers.
Best views
The best photographs are from the seafront promenade at sunset, and from the esplanade on the south side. A walk along the Corniche in the evening gives excellent views of the lit minaret.
Combine with
Pair your visit with a drive along the Corniche, a seafood meal at the port, and a walk through the Art Deco centre. See our Casablanca guide and religion in Morocco for context, and the Rabat guide for the next stop.
Frequently asked questions
Can non-Muslims visit the Hassan II Mosque?
Yes, through guided tours offered most days outside prayer times.
How tall is the Hassan II Mosque minaret?
210 metres, making it one of the tallest minarets in the world.
What should I wear to visit the Hassan II Mosque?
Cover shoulders and knees. You will be asked to remove your shoes before entering the prayer hall.