Located in the southern central part of Nouakchott, Mauritania, the Marocaine Mosque—also known as the Grande Mosquée de La Capitale or Mosquée Marocaine—is a notable Sunni Islam place of worship you will want to include on your city itinerary. Situated south of the Ould Abas Mosque, it places you right near the bustling Marocaine Market and next door to the Moroccan Cultural Centre. When you visit, your eyes will naturally be drawn upward to the mosque's impressive minaret, which stands 55 meters (180 feet) high.
As you examine the tower, you will see it is detailed with intricate Islamic mosaic ornamentation shapes featuring a striking palette of white, blue, and greenish colors. Resting at the very top of the minaret, an iron rod finishes with a hilal (crescent). Adjoining the main mosque building, you will also find an education center where local imams and religious leaders gather for lessons.
Although it remains unknown precisely when the mosque was originally built, its distinct architecture and cultural presence make it a compelling landmark to admire while exploring this part of the capital.
What to see at Mosque Marocaine
- Stands 55 meters (180 feet) tall in southern central Nouakchott
- Features detailed Islamic mosaic ornamentation in white, blue, and green
- topped with a hilal crescent on an iron rod
- Adjoined by an active education center for imams and religious leaders
- Conveniently located next to the Moroccan Cultural Centre and near Marocaine Market
Visiting tips
Combine your visit to the mosque with a trip to the adjacent Moroccan Cultural Centre and nearby Marocaine Market.
How long: 1 hour · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Mosque Marocaine is easy to reach on Nouakchott’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Ibn Abbas Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Nouakchott travel guide.
See the full Nouakchott travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.