Navigating Place des Nations Unies in Casablanca

Place des Nations Unies serves as the primary geographical link between the 19th-century Old Medina and the French-designed New City of Casablanca. This concrete plaza houses the Kora Ardia, a metallic globe sculpture designed by architect Jean-François Zevaco in 1975 that remains the square's most recognizable landmark. Unlike the nearby Place Mohammed V, which acts as the city's administrative heart, this square functions as a high-traffic transit hub and a commercial threshold. It sits at the intersection of several major arteries, including Avenue Hassan II and Boulevard Mohammed V, creating a constant flow of pedestrians and local commuters throughout the day.

Historical Evolution and Urban Landmarks

From the Grand Souk to a Modernist Hub

Before the urban expansion initiated during the French Protectorate in 1912, the area now occupied by the square was known as the Grand Souk or Souq Kbir. It was an open-air market where caravans from the interior of Morocco traded goods outside the Medina walls. Following the arrival of French urban planner Henri Prost, the space underwent a radical transformation to accommodate modern infrastructure. In 1908, a clock tower was erected by Charles Dessigny to instill European notions of time and order, though this original structure was demolished in 1948. The current tower is a faithful replica completed in 1993, standing as a nod to the colonial-era architecture that defines much of the surrounding district. Visitors should look for the Hyatt Regency tower—one of the city's first modern skyscrapers—which borders the square and serves as an excellent orientation point for those prone to getting lost in the nearby alleys.

The Kora Ardia Globe and Architectural Heritage

Architecture enthusiasts often flock to the square to examine the Kora Ardia, a bold example of modernist design in North Africa. Designed by Jean-François Zevaco, a Casablanca native and prominent figure in the brutalist movement, the sculpture consists of interlocking metal spheres over a subterranean passage. While the underground arcades were neglected for years, a significant renovation project completed around 2021 restored the exterior dome and improved the lighting. The square also features the Hotel Excelsior, built in 1916 in a Neo-Mauresque style that blends European Art Deco with Moroccan decorative motifs. It is worth standing at the center of the square to observe the contrast between these historic facades and the high-speed Line T1 tramway that glides across the pavement. To capture the best photograph of the globe, position yourself on the southwest side near the tram station just as the afternoon light reflects off the metallic ribs.

Practical Navigation and Visitor Tips

Transit Connectivity via the Tramway and Port

The square operates as one of the most efficient transit points in Casablanca. The Place des Nations Unies tram station is a primary stop on Line T1, which connects the eastern suburbs with the coastal district of Ain Diab. A single-trip ticket currently costs 8 Moroccan Dirhams (MAD), and vending machines are located directly behind the platforms for easy access. Beyond the tram, the Casa-Port railway station is a mere 500-meter walk to the northeast, providing direct links to Rabat and Kenitra. While the square is generally safe, the high volume of people makes it a prime area for pickpockets — keeping your bag in front of you is a basic necessity here. Travelers should also be aware that the underground walkways can occasionally feel cramped; using the surface-level pedestrian crossings is often a more pleasant experience for those who prefer fresh air over the occasionally stagnant subterranean environment.

Accessing the Old Medina and Local Markets

The northern edge of the square opens directly onto the gates of the Old Medina, specifically through the entrance near the clock tower. This gate serves as a transition from the structured boulevards of the 20th century to the irregular, narrow streets of the 19th-century quarter. While many tourists head straight for the souks, a small tip is to visit the local cafes along the perimeter of the square for a mint tea before entering the Medina; these spots offer some of the best people-watching in the city. If you encounter persistent street vendors at the Medina entrance, a polite but firm 'Non, merci' is usually sufficient. Walking south from the square for approximately 10 minutes leads to the Central Market, where the 1920s architecture houses stalls selling fresh oysters, local flowers, and traditional ceramics. This short walk provides a vivid cross-section of Casablanca's daily life, moving from the commercial energy of the square to the more relaxed pace of the market district.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an admission fee to visit Place des Nations Unies?

No, the square is a public open space with free access 24 hours a day. Visitors can walk around the landmarks, such as the Kora Ardia and the Clock Tower, without any charge or ticket requirements.

Which tram line stops at the square?

Line T1 of the Casablanca Tramway has a dedicated station named Place des Nations Unies. This line is the most useful for travelers as it connects the city center with major districts like the Casa-Voyageurs train station and the beach areas of Ain Diab.

How far is the square from the Hassan II Mosque?

The square is roughly 2.5 kilometers away from the mosque, which translates to a 30-minute walk or a 10-minute taxi ride. While walking is possible along the Avenue des FAR, taking a small red 'petit taxi' for around 15 to 20 MAD is often more convenient in the midday heat.

Can you go inside the Kora Ardia globe?

You cannot enter the actual metallic structure of the globe as it is a sculptural installation. However, you can walk through the renovated pedestrian tunnels located directly beneath the dome, which connect different sides of the busy intersection.

Where is the best place to find food near the square?

The area is surrounded by various options ranging from international fast-food chains to historic establishments like the Cafe de France. For a more traditional experience, walk five minutes into the Old Medina to find small stalls selling fried fish or tajines, or head to the nearby Hyatt Regency for high-end dining.