A Journey Through Time
Known as the "Gateway to the Sahara", Ouarzazate is a city located in the south of Morocco, surrounded by beautiful landscapes and stunning natural wonders.
Ouarzazate has some of the most beautiful kasbahs in Morocco. Kasbahs are traditional Moroccan homes made of clay and straw, and they are truly a sight to behold.
The most famous kasbah in Ouarzazate is Aït Ben Haddou. Walking through the narrow alleys and climbing the stairs to the top of the kasbah will make you feel like you've stepped back in time.
Aït Ben Haddou
This UNESCO protected red mud-brick ksar (fortified village or fort), located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, is a stunning example of ancient architecture that seems frozen in time. And if you're a movie buff, you may recognise the place from some of your favourite Hollywood blockbusters.
We recently had the opportunity to visit Aït Ben Haddou, and let me tell you, it was amazing! As soon as we arrived, I was struck by the sheer beauty of the place. The red mud-brick walls, which still resemble their days in the 11th century, rose up against the clear blue sky, and the sun cast a warm glow over the entire area. It was like stepping back in time to a bygone era.
But Aït Ben Haddou isn't just a relic from the past, the place is alive with culture and history. The village is known for its distinctive earthen buildings, which are made primarily of mud bricks and straw. These materials are locally sourced and have been used for centuries in traditional Moroccan architecture.
As we walked through the narrow, winding streets, I couldn't help but marvel at the incredible architecture and design of the buildings. Each one was unique, spoke to the rich cultural history of the area.
The buildings in Aït Ben Haddou are particularly special because of their unique construction and the way they blend into the surrounding landscape. The village is situated on a hill along a river, and the buildings are built into the hillside, forming a kind of fortress. The walls of the buildings are made of mud bricks, which are then coated with a mixture of mud and straw to create a smooth surface. The roofs are made of wood and covered with a mixture of clay and straw, which helps to insulate the buildings from the heat of the sun.
These hand-woven works of art are famous for their intricate designs and rich, warm colours that add a touch of exotic flair to any space. But what makes these rugs so special?
Moroccan rugs are traditionally made by women in rural villages using a technique that has been passed down through generations. The raw wool is turned into yarn, which is then dyed using natural plant dyes.
Moroccan rugs often feature irregular shapes and unexpected colour combinations that give them a playful, bohemian vibe.
One particularly striking design element of Moroccan rugs is the use of vibrant, bold colours. From fiery reds and oranges to deep blues and greens, the colours used in these rugs are meant to reflect the vibrant landscape of Morocco, from the sandy deserts to the lush oases.
One of the highlights of my visit was climbing to the top of the city's highest point, a steep hill that offered breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. From there, I could see the entire city laid out before me, as well as the vast expanse of the surrounding desert.
Hollywood have done few touch-ups in the city over the years. Aït Ben Haddou has served as a filming location for many famous movies, including Gladiator, Game of Thrones, Prince of Persia, Lawrence of Arabia and many more.
Of course, the adventure didn't end there. We also had the opportunity to explore some of the nearby areas, including the stunning Todgha Gorge and the lush Ouarzazate Valley. Each one was more beautiful than the last, and I felt like I was discovering a whole new world.
Todgha Gorge
This stunning natural wonder is located in the eastern part of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Todgha Gorge is formed by the Todgha River, which has carved a deep channel through the limestone over thousands of years. The walls of the canyon soar up to 300 meters, creating a dramatic landscape.
The light illuminating the canyon walls creates a stunning display of colours.
Donkeys are a common sight in the area, and they are always happy to pose for a photo.
The best way to explore the Todgha Gorges is by foot. It's an easy hike, suitable for all levels of fitness. The river is crystal clear and flows gently, creating a soothing sound that will make you forget all your worries.
Video by Karl Fenech
Whether you're interested in exploring ancient architecture or hiking through dramatic landscapes, these destinations have something to offer everyone!
