Ait Benhaddou – Exploring a UNESCO Heritage Site in Morocco
Nestled in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains, Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the Ouarzazate province of Morocco. It is an ancient fortified village, or “ksar”, that has been inhabited since the 11th century. With its fortified walls, red clay buildings, and narrow alleyways, Ait Benhaddou is a stunning example of earthen architecture and is a popular tourist destination for travelers looking to explore Morocco’s unique cultural heritage.
A Quick History of Ait Benhaddou
Ait Benhaddou has been inhabited since the 11th century and was once a major stop along the trans-Saharan trade route. Merchants would bring their goods from the Sahara desert and trade them here before continuing on their journey. The village is made up of a series of kasbahs, or fortified buildings, and is surrounded by a high wall. These walls and buildings have been well preserved over the centuries and are now a major part of Morocco’s cultural heritage.
Exploring the Ait Benhaddou Ksar
A visit to Ait Benhaddou is a must-do for any traveler exploring Morocco. The village is made up of a series of earthen buildings, or ksar, and is accessed through the main gate. The ksar is divided into three sections and is surrounded by a high wall. It is easy to explore the village on foot and it is a great way to get a sense of the unique earthen architecture.
Inside the ksar, visitors will find a variety of buildings. The most notable is the large Kasbah Taourirt, which is the home of the Glaoui family. This building has been used as a filming location for a number of major films, including Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and Kingdom of Heaven.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
The Ait Benhaddou ksar is surrounded by stunning landscapes, and there are a number of activities that visitors can take part in. The most popular activity is to take a camel ride through the nearby barren desert. This is a great opportunity to explore the area’s stunning scenery and get a glimpse of the traditional lifestyle of the local Bedouin people.
For those looking to explore further afield, the nearby town of Ouarzazate is an ideal base for excursions. Ouarzazate is home to a number of attractions, including the Taourirt Kasbah and the Atlas Film Studios. It is also the gateway to the Sahara desert, and is the perfect place to explore Morocco’s diverse culture and history.
Visiting Ait Benhaddou
Ait Benhaddou is a must-visit for any traveler exploring Morocco. The village is easily accessible from Ouarzazate, and it is easy to arrange a guided tour or to explore the village independently. It is best to visit the village during the cooler months, as it can get very hot during the summer.
Ait Benhaddou is an ancient earthen village that has been a part of Morocco’s cultural heritage for centuries. With its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and unique architecture, a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site is sure to be an unforgettable experience.