Unveiling the Secrets of Kasbah de Taourirt in Morocco’s Hollywood

Exterior of Kasbah de Taourirt

Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” is home to the country’s burgeoning film industry. While it may seem like a convenient stopover on the way to Marrakesh from Erfoud, it has hidden gems worth exploring. One such gem is the old Kasbah de Taourirt, a captivating historical site that offers a glimpse into Morocco’s rich cultural heritage.

Entrance sign for Kasbah de Taourirt.

A Morning Visit to Kasbah de Taourirt

First thing in the morning, we visited the Kasbah de Taourirt. Unlike the bustling medinas found in cities like Fez, this kasbah is smaller and lacks a major market. However, it is in fairly decent condition and offers a unique charm. The kasbah, which saw its heyday in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, is a labyrinth of hallways and stairwells leading to plain rooms adorned with ornate engravings and common areas where local artists display their wares.

Old Cannon
Buildings with ornate designs sculpted into the exterior.

An Artistic Haven

The Kasbah de Taourirt is a haven for art lovers. The main items for sale here are artworks, and the prices are incredibly reasonable. I regret not purchasing any art during our visit, opting to wait until we reached Marrakesh. The prices were fantastic, with paintings as cheap as 200 dirham (about twenty US dollars). One large painting of a lady, priced at 1000 dirham, particularly caught my eye. It was a steal considering the quality, comparable to the art I later bought for twice the price.

Artwork at Kasbah de Taourirt
Smaller paintings for sale for the equivalent of fifteen US Dollars.
The galleries at Kasbah de Taourirt adorned the walls throughout the historic structure.
Interesting painting that was among those I was close to purchasing.
Artwork at the kasbah.

Ornate Details and Rich History

Some rooms within the kasbah featured ornate ceilings, while others had verses from the Koran inscribed on the walls. These intricate details offered a stark contrast to the otherwise faded and mildly neglected walls, adding to the kasbah’s unique charm.

Artistic Arabic writing
The Kasbah de Taourirt had ornate Arabic writing inscribed into the architecture.
More Arabic calligraphy.
Interesting design created from Arabic calligraphy.

Guided Tour Through the Maze

We were fortunate to have a local guide lead us through the maze-like structure of the kasbah. In about an hour, he explained the history and significance of the kasbah, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The tour concluded with a visit to the low-quality but usable restrooms near the entrance—an essential stop before embarking on another lengthy bus trip.

Conclusion

The Kasbah de Taourirt may not be as grand as some of the other historical sites in Morocco, but it offers a unique and enriching experience. Its combination of history, art, and architecture makes it a worthwhile stopover in Ouarzazate. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a history buff, this kasbah has something to offer. Don’t miss the chance to explore this hidden gem and perhaps even bring home a piece of Moroccan art.

Ouarzazate may be known for its film industry, but the Kasbah de Taourirt stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural history. Make sure to include it in your itinerary when traveling through this fascinating region of Morocco.

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Author: John

I am an avid traveler. I enjoy adventure travel to explore places that I have read about, to learn about new cultures and to experience new cuisines. Travel is an exceptional teacher. I love to learn through the lens of an epic adventure.