Are you looking for an incredible destination that combines a fascinating history with breathtaking landscapes? Welcome to Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco's earthen city at the crossroads of trade and one of the most impressive UNESCO world heritage sites. Here in this stunning fortress-like structure perched high on a hillside overlooking an oasis below lies centuries of architectural beauty, craftsmanship, and culture - all blending together transforming time into something truly magical. From merchants trading goods along ancient pathways to warriors defending its walls against sieges, Ait Ben Haddou has seen it all! Immerse yourself in these stories from past civilizations as you explore this unique site while taking in the breathtaking scenery that surrounds it. Come discover why so many people are mesmerized by this special whose history goes back almost a thousand years!

Ait Ben Haddou is a fortified city located in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains, close to Marrakech. This historic site has been home to many occupations including Berbers, Arabs, and Tuareg nomads who have left their mark on walled city over the centuries. The earthen clay walls are a stunning reminder of its past glories - an amazing feat considering they are still standing today!Facts about Ait Ben Haddou: Ait Ben Haddou was originally built as a trading post for merchants travelling along the caravanserai route. Over time it became an important stronghold against attackers and served as a strategic defensive location during military campaigns. As well, it was known as an important centre for Islamic learning which attracted scholars from all over the region.

Despite its centuries-old history and remote location, Ait Ben Haddou still has a small population of around 300 people who call it home. Many of these families have lived in the city for generations and continue to maintain the traditional building practices that have been passed down over time. These days nearly all of the families have moved out of the Ksar and across the river to "the new town" but there are sill a few families who have homes within the fortress walls.

The history of Ait-Ben-Haddou goes back to when the village was first fortified in the 11th century. Since then, it has been used as a trading post between ancient Sudan and the city of Marrakech. The fortified Ksar (the Arabic word for “castle”) was built by local Berber tribes to protect them from invaders, and its walls were constructed from mud bricks or pisé (a type of adobe).

This strategic location along the caravan route made Ait Ben Haddou an ideal spot for merchants looking to exchange goods such as gold, ivory, salt, slaves - even weapons. And because of its rich resources and strategic position in the region, Ait Ben Haddou has been fought over many times throughout its history. In fact, it even served as a fortress for the Saadi dynasty in the 16th century, helping them to protect their kingdom from enemy forces.

As an earthen structures, buildings have been replaced over the centuries, but most of what remains dates to the 17th century. It was in the 17th century that the village became one of the most important ksars in the region, which is one of the reasons it has lasted as long as it has.

Compared to more modern fortresses, Ait Ben Haddou may seem easily attackable, but it was designed to be easily defended. Its walls are very thick and the buildings within them are stacked on top of each other. This means there’s very little room for enemies to enter, and they can be easily spotted from almost anywhere inside the ksar.

When the Jewish people where forced out of Spain by the Spanish Inquisition, many of them chose to go to Morocco. In particular, some chose to make a home in Ait Ben Haddou because of its integral role in the important trade routes passing through the area. Here, they found a safe haven and were welcomed in by the Berbers and Arabs who lived there. Despite their different beliefs, the people of Ait Ben Haddou lived together in harmony and this has been preserved through the centuries.

Absolutely! Not only is the village a UNESCO world heritage site, but it’s also been used as a backdrop in several popular films and television shows. Whether you’re looking for an escape to Morocco’s past, or just want to explore the stunning scenery that surrounds this historical fortress, Ait Ben Haddou is definitely worth visiting.

Today, Ait Ben Haddou is one of Morocco's most popular tourist destinations and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its perfectly preserved earthen structures are something to behold - an impressive example of traditional Moroccan architecture that is both beautiful and inspiring.

A visit to Ait Ben Haddou is something that should not be missed. The city is an amazing sight, with its sandstone-colored walls and majestic mountains in the background. It’s easy to imagine how traders of the past made their way through this winding narrow path lined with shops and merchants.

The best way to experience Ait Ben Haddou is by taking a leisurely stroll through its fortifications. As you wander around this majestic site, you'll be able to take in all of its beauty and marvel at the ancient craftsmanship still standing strong today. You can also explore several buildings within the walls of the ksar, including a mosque and several Kasbahs (traditional Moroccan dwellings).

See how Ait Ben Haddou was built for defense but also as a center of commerce, connecting far-away lands. Stop by the ancient granaries that were once used to store grains from nearby farms. Visit local artisans in their workshops where you can purchase handmade souvenirs crafted from traditional materials like clay, wood and leather. Wander through narrow passageways between dwellings or relax and have some mint tea with a Berber family inside one of their homes – an experience you won’t forget!

If you're looking for something a bit more active, the hills around Ait Ben Haddou offer fantastic hiking trails with stunning views of the valley below. Or if you'd like you can take a guided tour of the kasbah to learn about its history and the merchants, scholars, and warrior families who lived and worked here.

A visit to Ait Ben Haddou is sure to be an experience you won't forget! From its rich history and unique architecture to its spectacular landscapes, there's something here for everyone who makes the journey.

Ait Ben Haddou is located in the Souss-Massa region of Morocco, about 60 km from Ouarzazate. It sits near the foothills of the Atlas Mountains at the juncture between the desert and mountain regions.

The easiest way to get to Ait Ben Haddou is by car from Marrakech which is about 4-5 hours away. Discover Sahara Tours offer a number of multi-day excursions from Marrakech, Fes and Casablanca that include a visit to Ait Ben Haddou as well as a day trip to the Ksar from Marrakech.

No matter how you get there, Ait Ben Haddou is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Ait Ben Haddou is open throughout the year, although peak times are usually during the summer months. Keep in mind that temperatures can often be quite hot during these times of year so it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.

Ait Ben Haddou has been featured in numerous movies and television shows over the years. Perhaps most famously, it was used as a filming location for the classic Lawrence of Arabia (1962) as well as Gladiator (2000). The city can also be seen in Game of Thrones and Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011). As of the spring of 2023, they are building the set for the second Gladiator movie.

Ait Ben Haddou is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Morocco's Souss-Massa region. The city boasts traditional Moroccan architecture, including earthen structures, mosques, Kasbahs and granaries. Visitors can take leisurely strolls through its fortifications or go on guided tours of the village to learn about its history, architecture and unique culture.

Start planning your visit today and explore the history and culture of this ancient village! With its rich cultural heritage and incredible architecture, it's no wonder why so many people are drawn to this destination. Whether you're looking for a day trip from Marrakech or plan to make Ait Ben Haddou a stop on a longer excursion in the region – you won't regret your time here! So what are you waiting for? Make the journey and explore one of Morocco's most iconic sites.