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The Wonder of Ait Benhaddou
11/05/07 13:19
Setting on a caravan route between the
Sahara and Marrakech
is the ksar (fortified city) of Ait
Benhaddou. Considered to be an example
of a traditional Moroccan village, it
is made of many kasbahs. Built in the
11th century, it remains situated at
the foot of the High Atlas Mountains
along the Ouarzazate
River. From its hilltop position, it
gave the ancient village a commanding
view of the surrounding area.
Appearing out from the harsh desert
landscape, it was a major stop for
camel caravans carrying salt and other
commodities across the Sahara.
Ait Benhaddou has some of the earliest
examples of geometric arrangements of
bricks in a zig-zag pattern positioned at
oblique angles used in building the walls.
Fortified towers of mud bricks placed in
the corners reinforced the walls even more.
Guards would keep watch against invaders by
peering through small windows placed near
the top of their watchtowers. With interior
buildings placed around a mosque at the
center, it brimmed with family homes, small
palaces and communal areas. Winding mazes
of connecting streets and alleys mirrored
other early Moroccan towns in its
construction. Once a busy teeming city, it
now stands as a ghost town. Earlier in its
history, thousands of people made Ait
Benhaddou home. Approximately 700 residents
still live in the area.
Interestingly, Ait Benhaddou has been used as the backdrop of many films such as the Gladiator, Jesus of Nazareth and Alexander. Interest of the film industry in this area has led to protection of the unique buildings and historical monuments.
Ait Benhaddou was placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list in 1986.
Written by: Carole Morris
Provided by: Journey Beyond Travel - Morocco Travel Articles
Interestingly, Ait Benhaddou has been used as the backdrop of many films such as the Gladiator, Jesus of Nazareth and Alexander. Interest of the film industry in this area has led to protection of the unique buildings and historical monuments.
Ait Benhaddou was placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites list in 1986.
Written by: Carole Morris
Provided by: Journey Beyond Travel - Morocco Travel Articles
