2nd Largest Functioning Mosque In Africa - Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco, was completed in 1993 and is a breathtaking combination of architectural grandeur and spiritual significance. It is said to be one of the most iconic landmarks in Morocco. 6,000 Moroccan artisans and craftsmen from all over the country worked for five years to make architect Michel Pinseau’s design a reality. The mosque can accommodate 25,000 people for prayer inside and another 80,000 on the surrounding grounds.

Intricate mosaics, carved wood, marble, and chandeliers adorn the mosque, showcasing Morocco's rich artistic heritage.

This is what caught my eye; I hope you enjoy!

This mosque took over $800 million to build and employs approximately 200 staff members.

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Some more exterior views of the mosque

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At 689 feet, the mosque's minaret is the tallest in the world and at night, a laser beam points from the top toward Mecca.

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The titanium doors at the grand entrance.

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These are the designated fountains in the cleaning room where Muslims perform a ritual cleansing called wudu or ablution, which involves washing their hands, face, arms and feet in a specific order three times to achieve purity before entering a mosque to pray.

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The main area of the mosque blends modern engineering with traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, making it a marvel of design.

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There are 57 chandeliers, imported from Murano, hung throughout the building.

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These windows allows you to look into the cleaning room below.

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This niche is where the prayer leader stands in the direction of Mecca.

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Women can pray on the upper level hidden behind the wooden screens.

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The mosque large enough to fit Notre-Dame Cathedral or St. Peter's Basilica inside.

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The roof is retractable, illuminating the hall with daytime sunlight and allowing worshippers to pray under the stars on clear nights. It weighs 1,100 tons and can be opened in five minutes.

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Advanced features include heated floors and earthquake resistance.

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What you should know:

• The Hassan II Mosque is one of the few mosques in Morocco open to non-Muslims, but only through guided tours.

• Guided tours are typically about 45 minutes and are conducted in several languages.

• Dress modestly, men and women should wear clothes that cover knees and shoulders.

• Shoes must be removed before entering.

Location: Boulevard de la Corniche, Casablanca 20000, Morocco

For more information: Hassan II Mosque

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