Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou
Location: Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco
Year of Inscription: 1987
Criteria: (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage(s) in human history
(v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a fortified village located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. It is made up of a collection of earthen buildings surrounded by high walls, with traditional Moroccan architecture that dates back to the 17th century.
Prominent Features: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is made up of a collection of earthen buildings that are connected by a series of winding streets and alleys. Some of the prominent features of the site include:
History: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou was built in the 17th century as a stopover for traders who were traveling between the Sahara desert and Marrakech. The site was strategically located at the intersection of several important trade routes, which helped to make it a hub for commerce and culture. The earthen buildings were constructed using traditional Moroccan techniques, and were designed to provide protection from the harsh desert climate.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the winding streets and alleys of the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, and learn about the history and culture of the site. Children may also enjoy exploring the Kasbah and imagining what life would have been like for the local ruler and his family.
Fun Fact: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou has been used as a filming location for several popular movies and TV shows, including "Game of Thrones," "Lawrence of Arabia," and "The Mummy."
Entry Fees: There is an entry fee of 30 Moroccan dirhams (approximately 3 USD) per person for visitors to the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou.
How to Reach It: By Road: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is located approximately 30 kilometers from the town of Ouarzazate, and is accessible by road from Marrakech. There are regular bus services between Marrakesh and Ouarzazate, which is the nearest city to the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou. From Ouarzazate, you can take a shared taxi or hire a private taxi to the Ksar, which is located about 30 km to the east.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the Ouarzazate area, including hotels and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Riad Ksar Ighnda, the Dar Ahlam Hotel, and the Hotel Ouarzazate Le Tichka.
Next Stop: Medina of Marrakesh
Year of Inscription: 1987
Criteria: (iv) be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural, or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates a significant stage(s) in human history
(v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a fortified village located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco. It is made up of a collection of earthen buildings surrounded by high walls, with traditional Moroccan architecture that dates back to the 17th century.
Prominent Features: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is made up of a collection of earthen buildings that are connected by a series of winding streets and alleys. Some of the prominent features of the site include:
- The Kasbah: A fortified palace that is located at the highest point in the village, and was once the residence of the local ruler.
- The Granary: A large building that was used to store grain and other food supplies.
- The Mosque: A small mosque that is located near the Kasbah, and is still used for daily prayers.
- The Souk: A market area that is located at the entrance to the village, where visitors can find a variety of handmade crafts and souvenirs.
History: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou was built in the 17th century as a stopover for traders who were traveling between the Sahara desert and Marrakech. The site was strategically located at the intersection of several important trade routes, which helped to make it a hub for commerce and culture. The earthen buildings were constructed using traditional Moroccan techniques, and were designed to provide protection from the harsh desert climate.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the winding streets and alleys of the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou, and learn about the history and culture of the site. Children may also enjoy exploring the Kasbah and imagining what life would have been like for the local ruler and his family.
Fun Fact: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou has been used as a filming location for several popular movies and TV shows, including "Game of Thrones," "Lawrence of Arabia," and "The Mummy."
Entry Fees: There is an entry fee of 30 Moroccan dirhams (approximately 3 USD) per person for visitors to the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou.
How to Reach It: By Road: The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou is located approximately 30 kilometers from the town of Ouarzazate, and is accessible by road from Marrakech. There are regular bus services between Marrakesh and Ouarzazate, which is the nearest city to the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou. From Ouarzazate, you can take a shared taxi or hire a private taxi to the Ksar, which is located about 30 km to the east.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the Ouarzazate area, including hotels and guesthouses. Some popular options include the Riad Ksar Ighnda, the Dar Ahlam Hotel, and the Hotel Ouarzazate Le Tichka.
Next Stop: Medina of Marrakesh