Parc de la Ligue Arabe | Casablanca

Parc de la Ligue Arabe (Arab League Park) is Casablanca’s largest and oldest public garden, offering a green and peaceful escape in the middle of the bustling city. Originally designed during the French colonial period, it remains a popular spot for both locals and visitors who want to relax, walk, or enjoy the outdoors.

Here’s a detailed look at it:

1. Location: Parc de la Ligue Arabe is centrally located, stretching between Boulevard Rachidi and Boulevard Hassan II. It's close to major landmarks like:

Villa des Arts

Cathedral of the Sacred Heart (Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur)

Parc Yasmina (a smaller amusement park)

Its central position makes it easily accessible on foot, by taxi, or via the Casablanca tram, with several stops nearby.

2. History: The park was established in the early 20th century, around 1918, during the French Protectorate. It was designed by the French architect and urban planner Henri Prost, who was also responsible for much of Casablanca's early modern planning. His vision was to incorporate large green spaces into the new city layout.

Originally called Lyautey Park (after the French Resident-General Lyautey), it was renamed after Moroccan independence to "Parc de la Ligue Arabe" to reflect pan-Arab solidarity.

3. Design and Features: The park covers an area of approximately 30 hectares, making it one of the largest urban green spaces in Morocco.

Key features include:

Wide palm-lined avenues: The long rows of towering palm trees are one of its most iconic elements.

Large lawns and flower beds: Great for relaxing or picnicking.

Walking and jogging paths: Flat and shaded, ideal for daily exercise.

Benches and rest areas: Scattered throughout, often shaded.

Children’s play areas: Especially around Parc Yasmina, which is adjacent to the main park.

Seasonal events: Occasionally used for festivals, outdoor exhibitions, or community events.

4. Renovation: After years of decline, the park underwent a major restoration project beginning around 2016 and lasting several years. The aim was to:

Restore the original layout

Improve infrastructure

Enhance green spaces

Reopen fountains and pathways

Make the park more accessible and family-friendly

The renovation respected the park’s historical layout while upgrading it for modern use.

5. Atmosphere and Use: The park offers a quiet, shaded refuge from the noise and traffic of downtown Casablanca. It’s used by a diverse mix of people—students, families, joggers, elderly residents, and couples. It’s especially lively on weekends and late afternoons when locals gather for walks and socializing.

Despite being in a large city, the park manages to maintain a calm and somewhat timeless atmosphere.

6. Nearby Attractions:

Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur: A stunning example of neo-Gothic and Art Deco architecture, no longer a functioning church but sometimes used for cultural events.

Villa des Arts: Contemporary art museum and cultural center just outside the park.

Royal Palace of Casablanca (viewed from the outside): Located nearby, not open to the public.

7. Tips for Visitors:

The park is open daily and free of charge.

It is generally safe, but like any large urban park, it's best to avoid visiting alone after dark.

Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk its entire length.

Street vendors often sell snacks and drinks at the entrances and nearby corners.

In summary, Parc de la Ligue Arabe is an essential green lung in Casablanca—a place where history, nature, and daily life come together. It offers a perfect balance to the city’s concrete and traffic, and it's a great stop for anyone exploring the more relaxed, everyday side of Casablanca.