Aït Ben-Haddou
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Aït-Ben-Haddou is another example of Moroccan High Atlas architecture. Situated 30 minutes from Ouarzazate and just a few minutes' drive from Asfalou, the village sits on a hillside. Built around the 17th century, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1987, as it perfectly illustrates the earthen construction methods of the time, as well as the traditional habitat of southern Moroccan culture.
Asfalou
Located 3 km from Aït Ben Haddou, Asfalou is a small Berber village typical of southern Morocco, authentic and unique. 500 souls live here all year round, 40 of whom are employed at Ksar Ighnda, which shows just how important the Riad is to village life.
Since Pascal bought his first house 20 years ago, the village has taken a new turn, attracting many tourists. Renovation after renovation, the old cob buildings are being brought up to date, and the major earthquake of 2023, although destructive, has not marred this momentum. You'll have the chance to wander through the narrow streets of the village as it was in those days.
Ksar Ighnda is not just a hotel, it is above all an experience that can be lived like a real museum, an open-air witness to the past. You can easily replay scenes of life in days gone by between the narrow, glowing streets of the village of Asfalou, the old entrance to the village where pilgrims used to take refuge.
mosque
While a new mosque has been built in Asfalou, the village's old mosque is still standing and can be visited. Its stone walls bear witness to the history of the place, with its prayer room, minaret and ablution area providing an opportunity to immerse yourself in this place of worship.
attics
Around the bend in the lane are the old granaries that were used to store grain. Although they are now empty, the Riad invites you to visit them and immerse yourself in the life of the time. Although the premises are equipped with electricity, the very essence of the place has been kept intact in order to recreate as closely as possible the granaries as they once existed.
