Ksar Draa Wikipedia: History, Architecture, Culture, Etc.

Introduction

Ksar Draa aka a ksar is a fortified village which lies in the Draa Valley of Morocco. It is stationed around 100 km east of Agdz and 15 km south of the town of Zagora.

In fact, Ksar Draa represents a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the renown examples of the traditional Berber architecture in Morocco.

History

The Ait Atta tribe, a Berber group that has lived in the Draa Valley for ages, built Ksar Draa in the 17th century. The ksar was constructed to protect the tribe against raiders and to store food and supplies in case of siege.

The history of Ksar Draa is clouded by millennia and has obscure beginnings. Originally, the location was a walled settlement, mostly to fend off invaders and the harsh desert environment. Its rise and expansion were aided by its advantageous placement along historic trade routes.

Ksar Draa has seen several significant historical occurrences over the years, which has made it a major hub in the area. It functioned as a commerce hub and was essential to the trans-Saharan caravan trade. In addition, the settlement has a troubled past, with multiple sieges and conflicts that had a lasting impact on its architecture.

Architecture

Ksar Draa is a large mud brick and palm trunk building. It has a high wall surrounding it and only one entrance gate. The ksar is made up of a network of narrow lanes and alleyways that connect to a central courtyard. The courtyard is encircled by two- and three-story dwellings, granaries, and other storage structures.

Ksar Draa dwellings are typically composed of mud brick and have flat roofs. Geometric patterns and carvings adorn the walls of the dwellings. The dwellings also have small windows that allow for ventilation and light.

Granaries

The granaries at Ksar Draa are one of the Ksar's most notable features. In the event of a siege or a drought, the granaries are utilized to stockpile food and supplies. Granaries are usually found on the upper floors of houses.

Ksar Draa's granaries are composed of mud brick and have sturdy walls. The granaries also have small air openings to assist in keeping the food and supplies fresh.

Culture

Ksar Draa is a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage. The ksar's people are predominantly Berbers who speak the Draa Valley Berber dialect. The ksar's residents are likewise Muslims.

The people of Ksar Draa are well-known for their warmth and traditional Berber way of life. The ksar's people are largely farmers and herders who have humble lives.

Tourism

Ksar Draa is a well-known tourist site. Visitors can learn about traditional Berber architecture and culture at the ksar. Visitors can also visit the granaries to learn how the ksar's residents keep food and supplies.

UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 1987, UNESCO designated Ksar Draa as a World Heritage Site. The ksar's remarkable global importance as a well-preserved example of traditional Berber architecture and culture was acknowledged by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

Other notable features of Ksar Draa

The mosque: Ksar Draa contains a lovely mosque from the 17th century. The mosque is composed of mud brick and features a 20-meter-tall minaret.

The market: There is a tiny market in Ksar Draa where visitors can purchase traditional Berber goods and gifts.

Oasis: Ksar Draa is adjacent to an oasis where guests can relax and enjoy the palm trees and water.

Directions to Ksar Draa

About 100 km to the east of Agdz and 15 km to the south of Zagora town lies Ksar Draa. Renting a car or using a taxi is the most convenient way to get to Ksar Draa.

When should you go to Ksar Draa?

The warm weather in the spring and fall makes these seasons the ideal times to explore Ksar Draa. Ksar Draa experiences frigid winters and scorching summers.

Accommodations in Ksar Draa

Ksar Draa has a small number of hotels and guesthouses. Camping is permitted in the oasis close to the ksar.