KASBAH OF TAOURIRT

Classified as a Unesco World Heritage Site, the Kasbah of Taourirt dates from the ^12th century. It is known to have been one of the residences of the powerful pasha of Marrakech, Thami el Glaoui. Because they had offered a banquet to Moulay Hassan and his starving troops, the Glaouis obtained the command of the South Sahara, which marked the beginning of their meteoric rise. Warlords, they increased their influence until they became major players in relations with the French protectorate. In the 1940s, Thami el Glaoui was known throughout Europe, especially for the splendor of his parties and the splendor of his palaces. He was also a powerful businessman with a monopoly on many businesses. The strategic position of the Taourirt kasbah at the confluence of two rivers (Ouarzazate and Dades) led Thami el Glaoui to occupy it. The kasbah was bought by the municipality of Ouarzazate in the 1970s. Today, one can visit this magnificent kasbah partly restored. Beware, however, of the many guides with their official titles who will offer their services at the entrance. They are not all reliable and generally do not know their subject, apart from the speech they have learned by heart to reach the status of guide. This tour is the only one in the city that is not to be missed; however, don't expect big rooms with sumptuous decorations, there aren't any. However, some rooms are worth a visit, such as the room of the Pasha, absolutely superb.