Ksar Ait Ben Haddou is a historic fortified village located in the Ouarzazate Province in southern Morocco. It is situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech, making it an important stop for traders and travelers for centuries. The ksar, which is a term used to describe a traditional Moroccan fortified village, is known for its unique architecture and cultural significance.
Key features and facts about Ksar Ait Ben Haddou:
1. UNESCO World Heritage Site: Ksar Ait Ben Haddou was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 due to its cultural and architectural significance.
2. Mud Brick Construction: The buildings in the ksar are constructed primarily from adobe, a mixture of earth and straw, which gives them their distinctive reddish-brown color. The use of this traditional building material is an important aspect of the architecture in the region.
3. Fortress Design: The ksar is surrounded by high walls, watchtowers, and defensive structures, which were designed to protect its inhabitants from external threats such as raids and desert sandstorms.
4. Film Location: Ksar Ait Ben Haddou has been a popular location for filming movies and television series, including “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962), “The Mummy” (1999), “Gladiator” (2000), and “Game of Thrones” (2011-2019). Its unique and picturesque setting has made it a favorite among filmmakers.
5. Tourist Attraction: Today, Ksar Ait Ben Haddou is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world who are interested in its history, architecture, and cultural significance. It offers a glimpse into traditional Moroccan life and architecture.
6. Local Community: While the ksar is no longer inhabited by a large population, a few families still live within its walls, maintaining its heritage and traditions.
7. River Crossing: The ksar is located on the banks of the Ounila River, and there is a traditional earthen bridge that connects the two sides of the river, allowing for access to the village.
Visitors to Ksar Ait Ben Haddou can explore its narrow alleyways, visit the historic buildings, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. It stands as a testament to Morocco’s rich history and architectural heritage and continues to be an important cultural and historical site.
The contrast of magnificent architecture and unforgettable history makes Casablanca a fascinating place to visit. It is the amazing city that is gaining in popularity every year as it becomes cheaper to fly to Morocco.
Moroccohad always been a country I was curious about. It’s blend of North African and Arabic influences gave it this air of mystique that drew me in. Plus, you know, I like couscous. So I had high expectations when I decided to pop over from Spain and explore the country for three weeks.
