October 8, 2024 05:49 AM

What to Keep in Mind When Visiting Morocco's Hassan II Mosque

Morocco is one of the most popular destinations in the whole of Africa and for good reason. By now, you have probably its picture-perfect riads, delicious cuisine, and very blue Chefchaouen on social media.

One of the cities that many travelers love—and one that even became a backdrop of a famous Hollywood movie—is Casablanca. The largest city in all of Morocco, Casablanca is considered the country's economic and business center.

It is also home to a number of tourist destinations, including the famous Hassan II Mosque. Countless tourists have already flocked to the mosque for its stunning architecture and interesting history.

What to Keep in Mind When Visiting Morocco's Hassan II Mosque
Nomad Photographer on Pexels

However, as it is a place of worship, there are things to keep in mind when you visit the mosque. Here are some of them.

Don't Visit on Your Own

What to Keep in Mind When Visiting Morocco's Hassan II Mosque
Tom D'Arby on Pexels

The Hassan II Mosque is one of the mosques in Morocco and in Africa in general that non-Muslims can visit. However, you are not allowed to just enter on your own.

Instead, in order to see inside the mosque, you have to be part of a guided tour. You can opt for one of the tours run by the mosque itself or go for tour facilitated by an independent tour operator.

An entrance fee will be charged should you want to see inside the mosque. However, if you are happy to just enjoy it from the outisde, no fee will be required.

What to Wear

As previously mentioned, the Hassan II Mosque is a place of worship. Therefore, it is important to be respectful and dress appropriately during your visit.

What this means is that no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops are allowed inside the mosque. The clothing you wear should cover your upper arms, shoulders, chest, and knees.

Women are not required to cover their hair during the visit. However, female visitors can still opt to do so should they wish as a sign of respect.

You will be required to remove your shoes when stepping inside the mosque. It is recommended that you wear shoes that are easy to remove and put back on.

What You Can't Do

What to Keep in Mind When Visiting Morocco's Hassan II Mosque
Hans-Jürgen Weinhardt on Unsplash

We can't stress enough that while the Hassan II Museum is a tourist destination, it is also a very holy place. Therefore, there are things you are not allowed to there as a sign of respect.

Do keep in mind that you are not allowed to eat or drink during your visit. Smoking is likewise not allowed while you're there.

Always keep in mind not use to electronic devices while inside the mosque unless otherwise permitted by your tour guide. Taking photos are usually allowed, but videos are not.

It Has a Museum

If you are hoping to find a museum during your visit, you're in luck.

The Hassan II Mosque does have a museum that visitors can check out. However, the museum is rather small, so do not come expecting a grand museum with extensive exhibits.

Tags
Morocco, Africa
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