Casablanca history

The history of Casablanca is a tale of multiple rebirths, trade, and the fusion of cultures. The city, known today as the economic capital of Morocco, has come a long way from a small Berber settlement to a modern metropolis.

Foundation and Early Period

The first settlements on the site of modern Casablanca appeared as early as the 7th century. Initially, it was a Berber city named Anfa. Thanks to its location on the Atlantic coast, it quickly became a significant port and a prosperous city in the Middle Ages. Its inhabitants engaged in active trade and were known as bold seafarers, and sometimes as corsairs, which attracted the attention of European powers.

Key Factors of Formation

The city's history is full of dramatic turns that have shaped its current appearance:

• Portuguese Influence: In 1468, the Portuguese, seeking to secure their trade routes, destroyed Anfa. Later, in 1515, they built a fortress and a town on this site, naming it Casa Branca ("White House"). This name, later Hispanicized to Casablanca, became attached to the city.
• Recovery and Growth: In 1755, a powerful earthquake almost completely destroyed the city, after which the Portuguese abandoned it. Reconstruction was undertaken by Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, who fortified the medina and promoted the revival of trade.
• French Protectorate: Casablanca received a decisive impetus for development in the early 20th century. After the establishment of the French protectorate in 1907, the construction of a modern port and new urban districts around the old medina began. It was during this period that the city turned into the country's main industrial and commercial centre.

Cultural and Economic Features

Casablanca has always been a melting pot of cultures. Originally a Berber settlement, it absorbed Arab, Portuguese, and French heritage. This blend is reflected in its architecture, where the traditional medina sits alongside Art Deco districts. Economically, the city owes its prosperity to the port — one of the largest in Africa, through which a significant part of Morocco's international trade passes. Today, Casablanca is a symbol of dynamic development, where business activity harmoniously combines with a rich historical past.

Key Dates in the History of Casablanca

• 7th Century — A small Berber settlement called Anfa is founded on the site of the modern city, eventually evolving into an important port.
• 1468 — The Portuguese, seeking to end piracy originating from the port, destroy Anfa.
• 1515 — The Portuguese return and build a fortified city on the ruins of Anfa called Casa Branca ("White House").
• 1755 — A powerful earthquake, with its epicentre in Lisbon, almost completely destroys the city, after which the Portuguese abandon it.
• Late 18th Century — Sultan Sidi Mohammed ben Abdallah rebuilds the city, constructs a medina and mosques, and gives it the Arabic name Dar el-Beida, which also means "White House".
• 1907 — Following the killing of European workers, French troops bombard and occupy the city, marking the beginning of the period of French influence.
• 1912 — With the signing of the Treaty of Fez, a French protectorate is officially established in Morocco, and Casablanca begins to develop rapidly as the country's main economic and port centre.
• 1943 — At the height of World War II, the famous Casablanca Conference takes place in the city, attended by US President Franklin Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
• 1956 — Morocco gains independence from France, and Casablanca is definitively established as the economic capital of the Kingdom.
• 1993 — Construction is completed and the inauguration is held for the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest and most impressive mosques in the world, becoming the symbol of the city.

The history of Casablanca is a journey from a modest settlement to the economic heart of Morocco. Key stages of its development reflect the fusion of cultures, ambitious urban planning, and transformation into a modern metropolis.

• Foundation and Portuguese Heritage (15th–18th Centuries). On the site of the ancient Berber settlement of Anfa, the Portuguese founded a fortified city in the 15th century, naming it Casa Branca ("White House"), which later transformed into "Casablanca". After the devastating earthquake of 1755, the city was restored by decree of Sultan Mohammed ben Abdallah, laying the foundation for its future rebirth.
• Era of the French Protectorate (1912–1956). This period was decisive for the city. Construction of a modern port began, and French architect Henri Prost developed a master plan that turned Casablanca into a "laboratory" of Art Deco and Moorish style architecture. Wide boulevards were laid out and new districts created, defining the modern look of the city and its status as the country's main economic centre.
• Transformation into a Major Port (Early 20th Century). The construction of a large artificial port, begun in 1907, provided a powerful impetus for economic growth. The port quickly became one of the busiest in Africa, attracting trade, investment, and population from all over the country, which contributed to rapid urbanization.
• Casablanca on the World Stage (1943). During World War II, the city gained international fame thanks to the Casablanca Conference, where US President Franklin Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill met. This event forever inscribed the city's name in world history.
• Construction of the Hassan II Mosque (1986–1993). The erection of this grandiose structure became a symbol of modern Morocco and one of the most ambitious architectural projects of the 20th century. The mosque, designed by Michel Pinseau, stands partially over the Atlantic Ocean, and its minaret, at 210 metres high, is one of the tallest in the world. This project not only created an outstanding religious and cultural landmark but also demonstrated the highest skill of Moroccan artisans.
• Modern Business Centre. After gaining independence in 1956, Casablanca strengthened its status as the financial and industrial capital of Morocco. Today, a significant portion of the country's enterprises are concentrated here, and the city continues to grow, combining European influence with Eastern traditions.

The architectural appearance of Casablanca is a unique narrative of changing eras and cultural influences. The city presents a mesmerizing combination of traditional Moroccan motifs and European urban planning ideas, making it a true open-air museum of architecture. Each era has left its unique mark on the look of streets, squares, and buildings.

Traditional Architecture and the Old Medina

The historical heart of the city — the Old Medina — is a model of traditional Moroccan development. It is characterized by narrow, winding streets, houses with internal courtyards hidden from prying eyes, and massive fortress walls, such as the surviving part of the Scala fortifications. This district, restored in the late 18th century, preserves the spirit of the old Arab city as it was before the arrival of Europeans.

Colonial Era: Art Deco and Neo-Moorish Style

Casablanca's most striking and recognizable architectural period occurred during the French protectorate in the first half of the 20th century. Under the guidance of architect Henri Prost, a master plan was developed that turned the city into a field for bold experiments.

• Art Deco: Casablanca is rightfully considered a world capital of this style. Entire blocks in the city centre are built up with buildings featuring elegant facades, geometric ornaments, rounded corners, and balconies with wrought-iron grilles. Iconic examples can be found along Boulevard Mohammed V and Place 16 Novembre.
• Neo-Moorish Style: French architects sought to create a unique synthesis of European and Moroccan traditions. Thus appeared the Neo-Moorish style, or "Mauresque", which combined modern structures with traditional elements: arches, domes, and mosaics.
• Habous Quarter (New Medina): This district, designed by Albert Laprade, Edmond Brion, and Auguste Cadet, is a brilliant example of such synthesis. It was built in the 1920s–1930s as a modern version of a traditional medina, with arcades, souks (markets), and residential houses in a unified style, but taking modern needs into account.

Modernism and Contemporary Architecture

From gaining independence in 1956 up to the present day, Casablanca's architecture continues to evolve, reflecting its status as the country's economic hub.

• Hassan II Mosque: Undisputedly the main architectural symbol of modern Casablanca. Completed in 1993, this grandiose mosque, designed by Michel Pinseau, is a masterpiece of engineering and Moroccan craft traditions. Its 210-metre minaret dominates the city and is visible from afar.
• Modern Projects: In the 21st century, the city's skyline is complemented by futuristic skyscrapers and complexes, such as the Casablanca Twin Center towers, the Casablanca Finance City business district, and modern transport hubs. These projects demonstrate Casablanca's aspiration towards the future, without forgetting its rich and multifaceted architectural heritage.

Notable Personalities of Casablanca

Casablanca, the largest city in Morocco, has been the birthplace or an important stage in life for many talented and world-renowned people. Artists, scientists, and athletes connected with this city have left a significant mark on world history and culture.

• Jean Reno (born 1948)

  A world-famous French actor of Spanish descent, born in Casablanca under the name Juan Moreno y Herrera-Jiménez. His family moved from Morocco to France when he was 17 years old. Reno became famous for his roles in Luc Besson's films, such as "Léon: The Professional" and "The Big Blue", as well as for his participation in Hollywood blockbusters, becoming one of the most recognizable French actors in the world.

• Larbi Benbarek (1917–1992)

  A legendary Moroccan footballer, one of the first African players to achieve star status in Europe. He was born and died in Casablanca. Nicknamed the "Black Pearl" for his elegant technique, he shone in French and Spanish clubs, including "Olympique de Marseille" and "Atlético Madrid". Pelé once said of him: "If I am the king of football, then Benbarek is the god". A stadium in Casablanca is named in his honour.

• Nawal El Moutawakel (born 1962)

  A Moroccan track and field athlete, public figure, and politician, born in Casablanca. She made history at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, becoming the first woman from an Arab, African, and Muslim country to win an Olympic gold medal. Her victory in the 400 metres hurdles became a symbol of breakthrough for women in sports. Subsequently, she served as Minister of Youth and Sports of Morocco and is a high-ranking member of the International Olympic Committee.

• Gad Elmaleh (born 1971)

  A popular Moroccan-Canadian comedian, actor, and director, born in Casablanca. He began his career in France, where he quickly became one of the most famous stand-up artists. In his performances, Elmaleh often humorously refers to his Moroccan origins and the experience of living in different cultures. He is also known for film roles, including "Coco" and "The Valet", and successfully tours around the world, including in the USA.

• Driss Chraïbi (1926–2007)

  One of the most significant Moroccan writers of the 20th century, who wrote in French. He grew up in Casablanca and then moved to France. His debut novel "The Simple Past" (1954) caused a sensation, sharply raising themes of colonialism, generational conflict, and the position of women in traditional society. Chraïbi's work had a huge influence on the development of Maghreb literature and brought him international recognition.

• Serge Haroche (born 1944)

  A French physicist born in Casablanca. In 2012, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for creating ground-breaking experimental methods that enable measuring and manipulation of individual quantum systems. His family moved to France when he was 12 years old. Haroche's work in the field of quantum physics and optics has made a fundamental contribution to modern science.