The Hassan II Mosque

We saved our visit to the 14th largest mosque in the world until our last day. It was well worth the wait.

The approach to the mosque along the waterfront.

The huge forecourt which can accommodate 80 000 worshippers, 25 000 inside.

It was a hot day and we were very thankful for the covered walkway.

The building is truly vast

You might recognise these two, awaiting their time slot.

Once inside your breath is taken away by the mosque's dimensions.

Looking over the sea.

We were led down very dramatic stairs...

...to the area where the worshippers perform their ritual ablutions.

Back up the stairs and back to blue skies.

And that's it for Morocco. Big thanks to Mehdi, Élodie and all their family over there. Plus of course the everyday Moroccans who welcomed us everywhere.

Back to Casablanca

We were nearing the end of our stay in Morocco and it felt good to stay locally for a couple of days.

This is the view from the waterfront just a few minutes from Najia's home: the Hassan II mosque (more next time).

There's always time to play on the swings...

...the seesaw...

...or even just relax!

Back at Najia's, Selim and your faithful blogger having a bit of bonding time 😂

Back to the waterfront...

...it's strange to think this is the Atlantic Ocean, just like La Tranche.

Walking along, I liked the way they 'disguised' communication towers as palm trees!

Time to turn back at the El Hank lighthouse, 51m high.

Rabat (3) The Kasbah of the Udayas

We were impressed by Rabat, with plenty to see.

The Kasbah (or Citadel) dates back to the 12th century...

...with views over the Bou Regreg river's estuary...

...and beach.

The magnificent main Almohad gate, Bab Oudaia...

...and a traditional Moroccan door.

Looking back to the Kasbah...

...making our way to the medina (walled city)...

...with not-too-busy market areas...

...and inner courtyards.

I would definitely recommend a visit!

Rabat (2) Mausoleum of Mohammed V

We were taken down into Rabat, starting with a walk around the mausoleum of Mohammed V.

The Mausoleum contains the tombs of King Mohammed V and his two sons King Hassan II and Prince Abdallah

Inside was very ornate but it was well worth while looking up

The guard seemed more than happy to have his photo taken with us!

Across the square are renovations of the ruined Almohad-era mosque...

...with the Hassan Tower in prominent view

Part of the mosque's original walls.

The cloudy sky definitely gave our visit an atmosphere.

Rabat (1)

We caught the train from Marrakech to Rabat where Mehdi's auntie picked us up, taking us to her home to the south of the city.

The station at Marrakech was very impressive.

Najia on the right with her two sisters. Lovely people!

Just look at the auntie's house...

...amazing.

Tine in the garden by the pool (& Mehdi's feet).

Young Selim enjoyed a bit of pool time with his Papa.