Old Abattoirs, Casablanca

The Old Abattoirs of Casablanca, Morocco, stand as a poignant reminder of the city's industrial heritage and its evolution through time. Established in the early 20th century during the French Protectorate era, this complex served as the principal slaughterhouse of Casablanca until its closure in the late 1990s. The site, spread over a vast area, was designed to meet the meat processing needs of a rapidly growing city.

Today, the Old Abattoirs have taken on a new life, transforming from their original industrial use into a cultural hub. The metamorphosis of this space reflects Casablanca's dynamic spirit and its ability to repurpose its architectural legacy into vibrant, contemporary venues. The grand arches and robust walls of the slaughterhouse now enclose galleries, workshops, and performance spaces, fostering a creative environment for artists and cultural practitioners.

The site is not just a center for artistic expression but also a symbol of urban regeneration and adaptive reuse. It demonstrates the potential of historical industrial structures to be reimagined as places of community, learning, and innovation. Visitors to the Old Abattoirs can explore a range of cultural activities, from art exhibitions and theater productions to music concerts and educational programs.

Despite its transformation, the architectural integrity of the Old Abattoirs remains intact, allowing visitors to appreciate the historical context of the site. The imposing red brick structures, with their functional design, are a testament to the industrial architecture of the time and offer a stark contrast to the bustling modernity of contemporary Casablanca.