The Lincoln… the oldest hotel in Casablanca

The Lincoln Hotel is the oldest hotel in Casablanca. It was built in 1917, under the French protectorate, in the heart of Avenue Mohammed V (then called Avenue de la Gare), opposite the central market. It was the preferred destination for many national and international dignitaries who stayed there, as well as being a favorite venue for meetings, forums and major seminars.

This hotel was designed by the French architect Hubert Bride who subtly married modern architecture with the “neo-Moorish” style, at a time when Casablanca was the scene of various architectural experiments. Thus, the hotel stood out as a true masterpiece.

The Lincoln Hotel was built on an area of approximately 3,000 square meters, in the “Art Deco” style that reigns on Avenue Mohammed V and the city center districts. However, it has lost much of its luster over time and has become vulnerable, particularly due to the neglect it has suffered.

Once a beautiful historical monument, it gradually fell into ruin, becoming a refuge for the city’s homeless and a danger for pedestrians, especially in winter, when it rains a lot.

Although the Ministry of Culture classified the facades of this hotel building in 2000 as an architectural heritage to be preserved, this historic monument remained in a state of disrepair due to disputes between the town hall and the owner of the building; which disputes were brought before the courts, before a French company finally came to save it. This company has signed an agreement for its interior restoration, while preserving the historic facade which will not be subject to any modification.

source: moroccojewishtimes.com