Ait -Ben-Haddou – Step into Magic
Why should one visit Ait-Ben-Haddou as an absolute must?
It is genuine and historical; indeed, it is one of Morocco’s World Heritage Sites but it's also a well-liked filming site since it gives its narrative some glitz and pop culture.
Beyond Game of Thrones, Ait-Ben-Haddou has appeared in dozens of films like Gladiator, The Mummy, The Jewel of the Nile, and even Lawrence of Arabia.
Ait-Ben-Haddou is situated next to the Ounila River in central Southern Morocco in the Ounila Valley on the southern slopes of the Atlas Mountain range about a 180km from Marrakech and about 30 km from Ouarzazate.
The history of Ait-Ben-Haddou stretches far back, to the time when the settlement was first fortified in the 11th century.The trading path between ancient Sudan and Marrakech included the village of Ait-Ben-Haddou. At that time, the people living in this area had to weigh their instinct for self-preservation against others who meant to take over and stay longer against the appearance of openness for others passing by for commerce. As one might expect from buildings constructed from earthy elements, addobe, straw and wood, buildings came and went throughout the years. Although most of what you see today comes from the 17th century (the usage of cement and concrete is absolutely illegal). This was the period when the town started its climb to rank among the most significant ksars in the area, which explains its longevity until now.
Although the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou might seem readily sackable by modern standards, it was really built to be defended. Built against the side of a hill, the village first finds protection from the exterior walls of mud and clay. Any intruders who managed to pass those barriers were to find themselves in a maze. Tightly packed with narrow paths that loop around one another, the structures suddenly become steep staircases leading to still a higher level of construction. At last, the topmost summit of the ksar features a fortification and a wrecked agadir (fortified granary) where the locals may withdraw as a last line of protection. Ait-Ben-Haddou is a testament to resilience, standing strong throug the ages.One of the great ways to see Ait Ben Haddou is meandering through its maze. Losing oneself here is an adventure. Make sure you ascend all the way to the summit, the incredible views of the unspoiled valley to the north, are definitely worth the effort.
Ait-Ben-Haddou is a community rather than a particular tourist destination, it lacks official opening hours.
Your go-to partner for itinerary planning is Morocco Mon Travels.
info@moroccomontravels.com
1. Discover Ait Ben Haddou – Where Time Stands Still
2. Ait Ben Haddou – A Journey Through Morocco’s Living History
3. ‘Step into Magic of Ait Ben Haddou
4. ‘Explore the Gateway to the Sahara
5. Ait Ben Haddou – Your Ancient Adventure Awaits
6. Wander Through Walls that Whisper History
7. Capture the Soul of Morocco in Ait Ben Haddou
8. Ait Ben Haddou – A Fortress of Dreams
