Casablanca: Exploring the culture and history of Morocco's largest city

Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, offers a diverse cultural landscape that blends modern urban life with deep historical roots. The city features a mix of Art Deco avenues, neo-Moorish landmarks, and contemporary cultural scenes. Key sites include the monumental Hassan II Mosque and the Marché Central, a historic market built in 1917 that serves as a hub for Atlantic seafood and traditional Moroccan cuisine.

Beyond its modern developments, the city's history is tied to the Anfa quarter. Unlike other Moroccan medinas, Anfa’s historical footprint is less visible due to modern urban planning. Historical accounts suggest Anfa was once a flourishing city-state that served as a base for corsair operations before being destroyed by the Portuguese in 1468. While much of its original monumental presence has been lost, remnants such as the Sqala bastion and an 18th-century minaret remain.