The Hassan Mosque that overlooks the Bouregregreg River and borders the mausoleum of their Majesties Kings Mohammed V and Hassan II, may God rest their souls, is one of the most famous historical monuments of the Moroccan capital. Its fame is equal to that of the Koutoubia in Marrakech or the Giralda in Seville in Andalusia.
This mosque was built in 593 AH, during the reign of the Almohads, by Sultan Yaacoub al-Mansur, who died before the completion of the construction of this monument, which was considered one of the greatest of its time.
The mosque, which covers an area of more than 2,550 square meters, was neglected after the death of its founder, especially since it had cost huge sums of money from the State budget. The earthquake that struck Rabat had further complicated its completion as large parts were destroyed, before a major fire destroyed its wood. Rain and humidity will overcome the rest. However, the mosque has resisted year after year. UNESCO has listed it as a World Heritage Site.
The mosque is 180 meters long and 140 meters wide. Its minaret is 44 meters high. It was designed according to Andalusian Islamic architecture. Carved stones, bricks, plaster, marble were used for its construction. Cedar wood was also used, but it was stolen by pirates who turned it into a ship called “Karakaji”.
The mosque is now a historical and archaeological monument very popular with foreign tourists who wish to learn more about Moroccan civilization.
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