Summary

Artistic Voyages explores the historic kasbahs of Rissani, Morocco, capturing their architectural beauty and rich history through photos and stories.

Abstract

The article by Artistic Voyages takes readers on a visual journey through the ancient kasbahs of Rissani, Morocco, showcasing their historical significance as fortresses and palaces that once housed royal families and served as key trade hubs for commodities like spices, gems, and salt. The authors, Jill and Chris, share their personal experiences and photographs from their 2020 visit, highlighting the intricate architecture, the challenges of preservation against the harsh desert environment, and the government's efforts to maintain these cultural treasures for future generations. The piece serves as an invitation for readers to explore the enchanting Sahara and its timeless structures, emphasizing the allure and romance of the region.

Opinions

The authors express a sense of wonder and respect for the kasbahs' history, noting their age of up to 600 years.
They convey a sense of urgency about the preservation of these structures, emphasizing the risk of their return to the landscape if not maintained.
The article reflects a deep appreciation for the beauty of Moroccan architecture, particularly the tile work and arches.
Jill and Chris share a personal connection to Rissani, expressing a desire to return due to its unique, captivating atmosphere.
They believe that the restored kasbahs provide a glimpse into the past grandeur of these residences and serve as a significant tourist attraction.
The authors encourage readers to visit Rissani and experience the magic of the Sahara firsthand, suggesting that their photos are just a glimpse of the region's allure.

TAKING OFF

Of a Different Time and Place

Oh, the stories these walls could tell

The hot desert sun breaks into this 600-year-old kasbah in Morocco. Photo Credit: Author

While traveling in Morocco back in 2020, we had the good fortune to visit some of the Kasbahs in the area surrounding Rissani (YouTube video here), at the edge of the Sahara Desert.

Breaks for the sun allow light to pass in making it easier to navigate the dark passageways. Photo Credit: Author

Kasbahs are basically walled-in fortresses that typically housed one large family. Some were deemed palaces as they housed sultans and kings as far back as 600 years ago!

These arches are found everywhere in Morocco. Photo Credit: Author

Rissani, and this part of the Sahara Desert, was once considered the largest trading zone in the world! Trade routes came from Saudi Arabia, through the Red Sea, then would link Africa with Spain and Europe. Huge caravans of goods would come through this point.

Were talking spices, gems, and, the most important, SALT!

The sun was at the perfect angle to capture the shadows of the arches. Herbs and spices are still a huge part of Moroccan cuisine! Photo Credits: Author

Yes! Just plain old salt! It was a very sought-after commodity, and quite expensive back then!

These kasbahs and palaces are still occupied by some Moroccans that are descendants of the once royal families. While most have now left to find fortunes in the cities, some poor country folk have stayed behind in an attempt to keep these residences maintained.

You can see how the walls start to crumble. Construction is done with sand, clay, and straw, or animal dung. A crescent moon over the kasbah. Photo Credits: Author

If not kept up, over time, the harsh desert weather can whittle away at these structures, and eventually, they will disintegrate back into the desert and become just another part of the landscape again.

The outside facade of a couple of kasbahs that have been maintained by the government. Photo Credits: Author

Of course, the government has restored some, in an attempt to attract tourists. The ones that they have kept up give you a real sense of how beautiful these must have been hundreds of years ago!

A palace fit for a king! The tile work in Morocco is stunning! Photo Credit: Author

We spent 5 weeks in Rissani in 2020 and would love to go back again sometime. There is a magic in the Sahara that is hard to pinpoint. On one hand, it is hot, barren, and dry, but on the other hand, it is inspiring, romantic, and captivating.

Thank you for coming on a tour of the Kasbahs! I hope my pictures inspire you to stop in Rissani on your next journey to Morroco!

Hi there, we are 2 Canadians, Jill and Chris from Artistic Voyages. We have been nomadic since 2017 living in numerous different countries, and experiencing the life and diversity of our planet on the ground and firsthand. We have now been on the African continent for over 2 years! Join our adventure by hitting the links below! Subscribe to Medium to get full access to my writing plus thousands of others’!