Casablanca

Casablanca

Casablanca, the main port of Morocco, has a rich and complex history. The city's origins remain a mystery, but it is known that an Amazigh village called Anfa existed on the present site in the 12th century. Anfa later became a notorious pirate base, launching attacks on Christian ships. However, in 1468, the Portuguese destroyed the village in retaliation. The Portuguese returned to the area in 1515 and constructed a new town, which they named Casa Branca, meaning "White House." Unfortunately, this town was devastated by a powerful earthquake in 1755, leading to its abandonment. However, the ʿAlawī Sultan Sīdī Muhammad ibn ʿAbd Allāh took the initiative to rebuild the city in the late 18th century. As Casablanca began to attract European traders, Spanish merchants arrived and named the city Casablanca, which means "White House" in Spanish. Over time, the French population in the city grew, and the name Maison Blanche, also meaning "White House," became as commonly used as Casablanca. In 1907, the French occupied Casablanca, and it became the main port of Morocco during the French protectorate from 1912 to 1956. This period marked a significant turning point in the city's growth and development, as it experienced continuous and rapid expansion. Casablanca played a pivotal role during World War II when it hosted the famous British-U.S. summit conference in 1943, known as the Casablanca Conference. Today, Casablanca stands as a vibrant and bustling city, known for its economic significance, architectural marvels, and cultural diversity. Its history, shaped by various influences, has contributed to its unique character and global recognition.