From central Casablanca, the Old Medina offers a walk through the city’s historic quarter, shaped by its coastal setting and rebuilt after the 1755 earthquake. Its lanes blend Arabic-Islamic and European architectural influences, while the Bastion of Sqala marks its historic edge.
- Location: near Casablanca’s port
- Historic landmark: the Bastion of Sqala, built in 1769
- Architectural character: Arabic-Islamic and European influences
Finding the Old Medina
Casablanca’s Old Medina is close to the port, on the city’s Atlantic edge. Morocco’s tourism office describes it as the newest medina in Morocco, rebuilt following the 1755 earthquake.
That history gives the quarter a different architectural mix from a single-period site: Arabic-Islamic and European influences meet in its built character. The port’s proximity also makes the Old Medina a natural starting point for exploring this part of Casablanca.
What to see along its lanes
The Old Medina’s appeal is in its streets and varied architecture, rather than one single landmark. As you walk through the quarter, look for how its Arabic-Islamic and European influences appear together in the surrounding buildings.
For a wider city-day plan, the Casablanca one-day itinerary puts the historic quarter in the context of a full day in the city.
La Sqala and the historic edge
The Bastion of Sqala marks the Old Medina’s edge, opposite the fishing port. Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah had it built in 1769 as part of Casablanca’s coastal defenses.
Its sea-facing postern gate and stairways lead to the bastion’s esplanade. These changes were made after 1907, according to Morocco’s tourism board. La Sqala’s restaurant-café occupies a fortified 17th-century bastion behind the Old Medina’s ramparts.
La Sqala’s operator gives its address as Boulevard des Almohades, Casablanca 20250. The operator lists breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon, tea time from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., and lunch and dinner from noon to 11 p.m. Hours can change, so check the official site before you go.
Getting there and navigating on foot
From Hotel Al Mamoun, walk to Casa Port in about 17 minutes, or drive in about 9 minutes. Pair the port-side stop with a visit to La Sqala, which stands at the Old Medina’s edge opposite the fishing port.
FAQs
Where is Casablanca’s Old Medina?
It is near the port, on Casablanca’s Atlantic edge.
When was the Bastion of Sqala built?
It was built in 1769 by Sultan Sidi Mohammed Ben Abdallah as part of the city’s coastal defenses.
What architectural influences can you see in the Old Medina?
The quarter blends Arabic-Islamic and European influences.