Hassan 2 Mosque

The Hassan II Mosque, located in Casablanca, Morocco, has a rich and detailed history that reflects Morocco's cultural and religious heritage.

Background and inspiration:
The idea for the Hassan II Mosque was conceived by King Hassan II, who sought to create a symbol of national unity, pride, and Morocco's commitment to Islam. In 1980, King Hassan II announced his intentions to build the mosque, and a fundraising campaign was launched to finance its construction. Both Moroccans and the international Muslim community contributed to the funding.

Design and construction:
French architect Michel Pinseau was selected to design the mosque, which was inspired by a blend of traditional Moroccan, Moorish, and modern architectural styles. The construction began on July 12, 1986, and involved a team of more than 2,500 workers and 10,000 artisans.
The mosque was built using materials sourced from different regions of Morocco, including marble from Agadir, cedarwood from the Middle Atlas, and granite from Tafraoute. The site chosen for the mosque was a reclaimed land on the Atlantic coast, which required extensive engineering work to prepare the foundations.

Completion and inauguration:
After seven years of construction, the Hassan II Mosque was completed on August 30, 1993. The mosque was inaugurated on the eve of King Hassan II's 60th birthday, in the presence of numerous international dignitaries and religious leaders.

Architectural features:
The Hassan II Mosque is known for its impressive architectural features, including:

• The 210-meter (689 feet) tall minaret, the world's tallest minaret, equipped with a laser beam pointing towards Mecca.
• A retractable roof in the main prayer hall, allowing worshippers to pray under the open sky during special occasions.
• A glass floor in a section of the mosque, revealing the Atlantic Ocean beneath it.
• Intricate decorations, including zellige tilework, plaster carvings, wood carvings, and marble columns, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship of Moroccan artisans.

The mosque's role today:
The Hassan II Mosque continues to serve as a prominent religious and cultural landmark in Morocco. It can accommodate up to 105,000 worshippers, and its religious functions include daily prayers and special events during the Islamic calendar, such as Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
Additionally, the mosque has become a popular tourist destination, offering guided tours for non-Muslims to learn about Moroccan culture and Islamic architecture. In summary, the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is a stunning architectural masterpiece with a rich history that reflects Morocco's cultural and religious heritage. It stands as a symbol of national pride and unity, and continues to play a significant role in the religious and cultural life of Morocco.