Kasbah Taourirt, Located in Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert as its nickname, is the city’s symbol. Its construction dates from the 17th century. This Amazighbuilding reveals one of the city’s finest examples of Amazigharchitecture. It adjoins the medina and imposes its gigantic walls. It served as a palace for the Pasha of Marrakech, Thami El Glaoui.
One of the places popular with visitors to the province of Ouarzazate is undoubtedly the Kasbah Taourirt, an exceptional monument, witness to the depth of history and the authentic Moroccan heritage built by the ancestors.
Kasbah Taourirt
Tourists are interested in learning more about Moroccan culture and history go to Kasbah Taourirt. This phase in the history of Ouarzazate and its environs is commemorated in part by the Kasbah.
We didn’t pick this spot in town at random. Caravans traveling to and from the southeast to sell their wares or carry them to other parts of Morocco and other countries frequently used this intersection.
As a result, the Kasbah’s 19th-century construction now has many dwellings and ancient structures, such as an impressive reception hall and a handful of turreted structures, including stables and ovens.
The historic Kasbah of Taourirt is one of the most important Kasbahs in the southeast, indicating that it played a significant role historically and economically from its construction until the independence of Morocco.
World Heritage Site
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Kasbah of Taourirt is made of earth, straw, and lime and has become fragile over time.
Only a few parts of the stalk are allowed to see; You can observe the dining room and private apartments. The interior decoration’s richness contrasts with the exterior decoration’s sobriety.
Magnificent Kasbah
The Glaoui had transformed part of the Ksar (fortified village) into a magnificent Kasbah. He lived there with his family until 1956. Since then, Ouarzazate purchased the Kasbah and partially refurbished it.
Kasbah Taourirt’s initial concept has been completely rewritten in light of the new information. Only a few portions still witness the magnificence of this building, in particular the reception hall designed in an urban style, the courtyard, and the facade decorations. The towers, the stables, the ovens, the meandering lanes, and the family rooms no longer have any remnants except in the ancients’ memory.
Part of the Center for the Conservation and Rehabilitation of Atlantic and Subatlasic Architectural Heritage is in the southeastern part of the Kasbah Taourirt. There are also three other parts. The northeastern part was rebuilt in 1996 and is now open to visitors. The “Stara” part is where people live, and the central part is in ruins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who built the Kasbah Taourirt?
In the late 19th century, the Sultan of Morocco appointed the Glaouis Pasha of Marrakesh. They used Kasbah Taourirt as their primary residence and administrative center. The kasbah has undergone numerous expansions and renovations over the centuries, transforming it into one of Morocco’s largest and most impressive kasbahs.
Today, Kasbah Taourirt is a well-known tourist destination and UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the best-preserved examples of traditional Moroccan architecture and a symbol of the region’s rich cultural heritage.
What are the people of Taourirt called?
The people of Taourirt are generally referred to as Taourirtis or Taourirtiens. Taourirt is a town located in northeastern Morocco, so the people of Taourirt are Moroccan.
Kasbah Taourirt on the Map