Kasbahs & Ksours, Architecture of Morocco

The habitations of south Morocco are called Kasbahs, the walls are out of cob ( it is a mixture of ground collected on the spot and from straw packed between two planks of cedarwood, it protects from the cold in winter and the heat in summer) with four turns of angle surrounding central construction where rooms and stores encircle an interior court, the patio.

Ouarzazate Kasbahs to visit:

– Taourirt: belongs to Glaoui, classified since 1953 as national heritage.

– Tifoultout: belongs to Glaoui, 5 km from Ouarzazate on your way to Marrakech and on the left of CLA studios. Enjoy the panoramic view of Ouarzazate river and the lake of El Mansour Ed-Dhabi.
– Amerhidil: located in the palm grove of Skoura, it is worth and recommended visiting it during a desert tour or a day excursion to Dades Valley.
– Tamnougalt: situated on the left side of Draa valley, don’t miss to take a picture of this fascinating Kasbah.

Ksours to visit:

The Ksar (ksour in plural) is a fortified village, surrounded by a strengthened wall and a single front door as protection from looters.

– Ait Benhaddou village: classified by UNESCO patrimony since 1987, used as natural decor for many movies.
– Ighrem Goulmima: It is highly recommended to visit this traditional Ksar in the palm grove of Goulmima.
– Ksours of Rissani, Sijilmassa & Tafilalet: A must-visit while on a Morocco tour that covers imperial cities and Southern desert regions.

Agadir or Ighrem is a fortified granary where locals store their cereals. It is a collective attic where every family a particular piece. Before you cross Tizi N’Tichka pass (2260m) on your way to Marrakech, the village of Ighrem N’Ougdal still preserves a granary.