Hassan II Mosque, Casablanca

The Hassan II Mosque is famous for its exquisite and intricate Islamic architecture, which is a blend of traditional Moroccan and modern styles. The mosque is one of the largest in the world and can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers at a time.

The mosque rises above the Atlantic Ocean. The building is built partially on land and partially over the ocean. This siting was accomplished by creating a platform linking a natural rock outcrop reclaimed from the sea. Two large breakwaters were also built, to protect the mosque from the erosive action of the ocean waves, which can be up to 10 metres (33 ft) in height. A temporary pier 800 meters (2,600 ft) in length had to be erected to protect the foundations of the pillars from the sea during the construction period. Its environmental advantage is that it is free of noise and pollution and receives a fresh breeze from the sea.