Photo from the Flandrin Collection, private collection of the Banque Populaire Foundation
History
An iconic monument of Casablanca that tells the story of the city through the 21st century
Historical Timeline
Discover the key stages that shaped the history of this iconic monument
Photo from the Flandrin Collection, private collection of the Banque Populaire Foundation
The completion of an architectural masterpiece
The official inauguration of the Sacred Heart Space marks a major milestone in the architectural and cultural history of Casablanca. Designed by architect Paul Tournon, the building stands out for its avant-garde character, the result of a skillful marriage between Gothic art and Art Deco, a style then unprecedented in North Africa.
With its soaring vaults, geometric stained glass windows and clean facades, the church embodies the modernity and elegance characteristic of 1930s Casablanca. This architectural masterpiece bears witness to the aesthetic refinement of its era and the desire to make the Sacred Heart Space a strong symbol of the city, at the crossroads between religious tradition and urban innovation.
Morocco's independence: a turning point
After Morocco's independence, attendance at the Sacred Heart Space gradually declined. Little by little, the building lost its initial religious function, a direct consequence of the social and demographic transformations of the city.
However, far from falling into oblivion, the church acquired a new status: that of a heritage and cultural symbol of Casablanca. Its remarkable architecture and its place in the heart of the city make it a place charged with history, witness to the colonial past but also to the urban and artistic evolution of modern Morocco.
Photo from the Flandrin Collection, private collection of the Banque Populaire Foundation
Photo from the Flandrin Collection, private collection of the Banque Populaire Foundation
Deconsecration and change of use
The Sacred Heart Space is officially deconsecrated, marking the end of its religious use. This change offers it a new life as a cultural and exhibition space, open to creation and artistic dialogue.
From then on, the monument hosts various events such as concerts, exhibitions, screenings and numerous cultural events. This renewal transforms the building into a living and inclusive place, where heritage and modernity meet, making the Sacred Heart Space a symbol of Casablanca's cultural vitality.
Heritage recognition
Listed among the iconic monuments of Casablanca's architectural heritage, the Sacred Heart Space occupies a special place in the city's history. With its bold reinforced concrete structure and revisited neo-Gothic style, it bears witness to the architectural genius and innovative spirit of its era.
Its unique appearance now attracts architects, researchers and visitors from around the world, fascinated by the harmony between tradition and modernity that the building embodies. A true urban and cultural landmark, the Sacred Heart Space remains a strong symbol of Casablanca's heritage and the richness of its artistic legacy.
Photo from the Flandrin Collection, private collection of the Banque Populaire Foundation
Photo from the Flandrin Collection, private collection of the Banque Populaire Foundation
Beginning of rehabilitation
Restoration and security work was undertaken to preserve the Sacred Heart Space, weakened by time and years of exposure to the elements. These interventions aim to safeguard the solidity of the building while respecting its original architecture, a strong symbol of Casablanca's heritage.
At the same time, a clear will emerges: to give new life to this historic monument by transforming it into a true center of creativity and cultural dialogue. The objective is to make it a place open to all, where arts, ideas and generations meet, thus perpetuating the living and inspiring spirit of the Sacred Heart Space.
Renaissance of a heritage jewel
The site of the Sacred Heart Space is reborn today as a true cultural, artistic and tourist center, symbol of the vitality and renewal of Casablanca. This iconic place transforms into a space of encounter between memory and modernity, where heritage, art, innovation and citizenship intersect.
By hosting exhibitions, events and creative initiatives, the Sacred Heart Space now fits into a sustainable approach to enhancing Casablanca's heritage. It embodies the will to preserve history while reinventing it, offering the city a living, inspiring space open to the world.
Photo from the Flandrin Collection, private collection of the Banque Populaire Foundation
Paul Tournon
The visionary architect who designed the Ex Church Sacred Heart of Casablanca, a masterpiece of Moroccan Art Deco
Biography
French architect born in Marseille, Paul Tournon graduated from the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. Winner of the Second Grand Prix de Rome in 1911, he distinguished himself by his ability to unite spirituality, modernity and technique.
Pioneer in the use of reinforced concrete for religious buildings, he marries innovation with great artistic sensitivity. His revolutionary approach transformed the sacred architecture of his time.
In 1930, he designed the Sacred Heart of Casablanca, a masterpiece that combines neo-Gothic and art deco styles, magnified by light and Moroccan volumes. Tournon was also chief architect of Civil Buildings and National Palaces and a member of the Academy of Fine Arts.
Major Achievements
Second Grand Prix de Rome in 1911
Chief Architect of Civil Buildings and National Palaces
Member of the Academy of Fine Arts
Pioneer of reinforced concrete in religious architecture
Architectural Philosophy
Paul Tournon believed in an architecture that transcends eras, where spirituality meets technical innovation. His work embodies a harmonious dialogue between spiritual heritage and architectural modernity.
Explore the Architecture
Dive into the exceptional architectural details of the Sacred Heart Space. Discover how Art Deco and modernism meet in this unique masterpiece.
