Ait Benhaddou
Hollywood of morocco
a fortified village
the oldest and most famous Kasbah in Morocco .
Ait Benhaddou is a historic ighrem or ksar along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech in present-day Morocco. It is considered a great example of Moroccan earthen clay architecture and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.
Ait Benhaddou is a fortified city, or ksar, located in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains in Morocco. Here are some key points about Aït Benhaddou:
1. **Historical Significance**: Ait Benhaddou is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its traditional Moroccan architecture. The ksar consists of a group of earthen buildings surrounded by high walls, typically constructed using a combination of mud bricks, straw, and wood.
2. **Strategic Location**: Situated along the former caravan route between the Sahara Desert and Marrakech, Aït Benhaddou served as a vital hub for trade and commerce. Its strategic location allowed it to prosper as a trading post and a center for various cultural exchanges.
3. **Architecture**: Ait Benhaddou’s architecture is a prime example of Moroccan earthen clay construction techniques. The buildings are typically adorned with decorative elements such as geometric patterns and intricate carvings. The entire ksar is encompassed by defensive walls, which helped protect it from external threats.
4. **Cinematic Fame**: Aït Benhaddou’s unique beauty and historical significance have made it a popular filming location for numerous movies and television series. Its appearance in productions like “Lawrence of Arabia,” “Gladiator,” and, as previously mentioned, “Game of Thrones,” has contributed to its global recognition.
5. **Tourism**: Today, Ait Benhaddou is a major tourist attraction in Morocco. Visitors can explore its narrow winding streets, visit its ancient kasbahs (fortified homes), and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape. The site offers insight into traditional Moroccan life and architecture, attracting visitors from around the world.
6. **Preservation Efforts**: While Ait Benhaddou has withstood the test of time for centuries, ongoing efforts are made to preserve and maintain its historic structures. Conservation projects aim to protect the ksar from natural erosion and deterioration, ensuring that future generations can continue to appreciate its cultural heritage.
Overall, Ait Benhaddou stands as a testament to Morocco’s rich history and architectural heritage. Its picturesque setting and cinematic allure make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of North Africa.
Game of Thrones Ait Benhaddou Morocco
Ksar Tamdakht
photographers and filmmakers from around the world who come to be inspired by his particular aesthetic.
Tamdakht, 5 KM West Ait Benhaddou towards the Atlas Mountain, the village is dominated by the ruins of an old Kasbah of the apparently ruined Glaoui dynasty.
Telouet Kasbah
The palace is located on the outskirts of the small Berber village of Télouet, in Morocco. It lies at an elevation of 1,800 metres (5,900 ft).
Telouet Kasbah is a Palace along the former route of the caravans from the Sahara over the Atlas Mountains to Marrakech. The kasbah was the seat of the El Glaoui family’s power, thus sometimes also called the Palace of Glaoui. Its construction started in 1860 and it was further expanded in later years. The palace can still be visited but it is steadily becoming more damaged and is slowly collapsing. In 2010, work was underway to restore the property.
Studios in Ouarzazate and filming
Over the years, Ouarzazate has become an integral part of the world-wide panorama of filming locations.
Naturally, by its geographical location and the grandiose landscapes of the region. To meet the growing needs of the productions, 2 studios were created simultaneously in 1983, the studios Cla and Atlas Corporation.
Atlas Corporation Studios
20 hectares
Professionals or visitors passing through southern Morocco,
the famous ATLAS Film Studios, created in 1983, welcomes you in Ouarzazate, at the gates of the desert.
cla stodios
16 HECTARES
CLA Studios is created in 2004, in partnership with Dino de Laurentis, Cinectittà and Sanam Holding.
CLA Studios offers an optimal and complete configuration for the big film and television productions, thanks to its installations and services.
CINEMA MUSEUM
OUARZAZATE
Opened in June 2007, located at the site of an old studio, the museum reflects the will of the authorities to preserve film heritage of Ouarzazate. In this perspective, the Film Museum recalls the history of the studios of Ouarzazate and great films made in these places.
