Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou
Discover the Ancient Charm of Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou
Tucked away in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco lies a treasure trove of ancient architecture, the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou. This fortified city, or ksar, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987 and is one of the most iconic and breathtaking attractions in Morocco.
A Brief History
The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou dates back to the 11th century, when it was an important stopover for trade caravans traveling between Marrakech and the Sahara Desert. The ksar was built by the Berber tribe, the Ait Ben Haddou, who settled in this strategic location to control the passage of goods and people through the Atlas Mountains.
Architecture and Design
The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a masterpiece of Moroccan architecture, with its intricate blend of Berber, Arab, and Andalusian styles. The city’s walls are made of rammed earth, a mixture of soil, water, and lime, which has helped to preserve the structure for centuries.
The ksar’s architecture is characterized by:
- Towers and Battlements: The city’s towers and battlements were built to protect its inhabitants from invaders.
- Narrow Alleys: The narrow alleys and streets are designed to slow down intruders, making it easier for defenders to respond to threats.
- Adobe Buildings: The adobe buildings, made of rammed earth, have withstood the test of time and harsh desert climate.
A Popular Film Location
The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou has been a popular filming location for many famous movies and TV shows, including:
- Game of Thrones: The ksar was used as a filming location for the city of Yunkai in Season 3.
- Lawrence of Arabia: The 1962 epic film starring Peter O’Toole was partially filmed at the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou.
- The Mummy: The 1999 adventure film starring Brendan Fraser and Rachel Weisz also featured the ksar as a key filming location.
Visiting the Ksar
The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is open to visitors year-round, although the best time to visit is during the spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant.
- Getting There: The ksar is located about 30 km from Ouarzazate, a city in southern Morocco. You can take a taxi or bus from Ouarzazate to the village of Ait Ben Haddou.
- Admission Fees: Entrance fees are around 50 MAD (5 EUR) per person.
- Guided Tours: Guided tours are available and recommended to get the most out of your visit.
Conclusion
The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, or film. Its stunning location, rich history, and breathtaking architecture make it an unforgettable experience. So why not start planning your trip to Morocco today and discover the ancient charm of this incredible fortified city?