#Ait ben haddou

[wgm-beautiful-world]

AÏT BENHADDOU

[backonthemainland]

[2t2r]

Abandonned - des ruines abandonnées par Andy Lee

Nouvel article publié sur https://www.2tout2rien.fr/abandonned-des-ruines-abandonnees-par-andy-lee/

Abandonned - des ruines abandonnées par Andy Lee

[maslimanny]

As they set out from their place above, each soul is male and female as one. Only as they descend to this world do they part, each to its own side. And then it is the One Above who unites them again. This is His exclusive domain, for He alone knows which soul belongs to which and how they must reunite.

[azulpressagadir]

Ourzazat : Organisation du Festival Izouran 2024 au Ksar Ait Ben Haddou

L’association WE SPEAK CITIZEN, en partenariat avec lh-écho production et la Maison de l’Oralité, organise la deuxième édition du Festival « IZOURAN » qui se tiendra du 18 au 21 octobre 2024 au Ksar Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate. Ce festival a pour objectif de promouvoir la préservation du patrimoine oral amazigh et de renouer avec les racines amazighes. WE SPEAK CITIZEN, une ONG, œuvre à travers…

[excursionsmarrakech]

Excursion Marrakech

Excursion Marrakech – Excursion OuarzazateDépart tôt le matin. Nous traversons le Haut Atlas et atteignons le col de Tizi N’Tichka, haut de 2260 mètres. C’est le plus haut passage routier du Maroc et il relie Marrakech aux régions du Sahara, dont Ouarzazate est le carrefour. Nous nous arrêtons pour visiter la célèbre ville fortifiée d’Ait Ben Haddou. La kasbah a été inscrite au patrimoine mondial…

[beautjfulcrescentmoon]

Riad Maktoub, Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco.

[paramedicabroad]

Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou

The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou stands proudly on a hill along the Ounila River, a striking sight with its terracotta-colored walls blending harmoniously with the surrounding desert landscape. The word "ksar" refers to a group of earthen buildings enclosed within defensive walls, and Ait-Ben-Haddou is the most famous and best-preserved example of this ancient form of settlement in southern Morocco.

In 1987, the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, acknowledging its cultural and historical importance, as well as its extraordinary earthen architecture. The site is a testament to Morocco’s ancient trade routes, traditional construction methods, and the resilience of its desert communities. The ksar continues to be a source of inspiration and fascination for travelers and historians alike.

This UNESCO World Heritage site has been around for centuries—since the 11th century, to be exact. It served as a crucial stop on the ancient trans-Saharan trade route, where merchants would rest, trade, and shelter from the harsh desert conditions as they traveled between Marrakesh and the Sahara, bringing goods such as salt, gold, and ivory.

The architecture of Ait-Ben-Haddou is a stunning example of pre-Saharan construction, using a mixture of clay, straw, and wood. Its mud-brick towers, intricately decorated facades, and narrow, winding streets give the ksar a unique, fortress-like appearance. Walking through its ancient alleyways feels like stepping back in time, with every turn offering a glimpse of Morocco's rich past.

Ait-Ben-Haddou’s otherworldly charm hasn’t gone unnoticed by Hollywood. Over the years, it has been featured in numerous blockbuster films and TV shows. From "Gladiator" to "Game of Thrones", this ksar has doubled as ancient cities and far-off fantasy lands. As you wander through its dusty streets, it’s easy to see why directors are drawn to its timeless beauty.

At the top of the ksar, you’ll find the granary, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding desert and the nearby Atlas Mountains. This climb is well worth the effort, especially at sunset, when the red hues of the buildings and landscape glow under the setting sun. It’s one of those moments that will leave you speechless, feeling as though you’re on the edge of the world.

While many of the families that once lived within the ksar have since moved to more modern homes across the river, a few still remain, keeping the traditions and history of the ksar alive. As you explore the narrow streets and shaded courtyards, you might come across local artisans selling their handmade crafts or invite you to visit one of the small shops housed in the ksar's ancient walls.

Visiting Ait-Ben-Haddou is like discovering a hidden treasure in the middle of the desert. It’s about a four-hour drive from Marrakesh, making it a perfect day trip if you’re exploring the Atlas Mountains or heading toward the Sahara. The ksar’s location on the edge of the desert only adds to its mystique, offering visitors a chance to see a different side of Morocco—one that’s steeped in history and tradition.🏛️⛰️🇲🇦

[salantami]

Ait Ben Haddou Ouarzazate

Aït Benhaddou is a historic ighrem or ksar along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh in Morocco. It is considered a great example of Moroccan earthen clay architecture and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987

[sa7abnews]

Gladiator II: A missed chance for North African representation

New Post has been published on https://sa7ab.info/2024/08/11/gladiator-ii-a-missed-chance-for-north-african-representation/

Gladiator II: A missed chance for North African representation

It’s been 24 years since Maximus Decimus Meridius had his vengeance in Ridley Scott’s historical epic Gladiator.

Today it is still a world-beloved piece of cinema in which screenwriters David Franzoni, John Logan and William Nicholson wove real-life figures of Ancient Rome into their fictionalised account of a general-turned-slave-turned-gladiator, iconically played by Russell Crowe.

This November, a sequel is headed to cinemas, set potentially 15-20 years after Maximus brushed his way through a wheatfield to the afterlife.

Irish actor Paul Mescal takes over as the lead, playing a grown-up Lucius Verus who first appeared as the child heir to the Roman Empire in the original film set during AD 180.

To begin Gladiator II, David Scarpa, Peter Craig and Franzoni’s script has him packed off as a child to Numidia – which today would roughly cover the area of modern western Tunisia and eastern Algeria) in North Africa – by his mother Lucilla (Connie Nielsen reprising the role) to grow up away from the scheming Roman senate.

Lucius has a wife and child but has had no contact with his mother for 15 years. There’s also the small problem of Rome, ruled by co-emperors Caracalla (Joseph Quinn) and Geta (Fred Hechinger) wanting to expand their empire further into North Africa.

Fictional Roman General Marcus Acacius (Pedro Pascal) invades the coastal village where Lucius lives and he is subsequently enslaved as a, you guessed it, gladiator.

Denzel Washington is thrown into the mix as Macrinus, described by Scott as “a power broker and arms dealer” who enlists Lucius in his plot to usurp the rule of Rome.

As a critic of mixed British and Tunisian heritage, with a Tanit tattoo on my right forearm, I have more than a passing interest in the representation of North Africa on screen, especially in films set during classical antiquity.

The Carthaginian Empire is “my Roman Empire” but I’m fully aware of Hollywood’s annoying habit of white-washing, erasing and/or misrepresenting the Maghreb’s history and inhabitants.

Ridley Scott’s filmography is far too guilty of that – Gladiator included.

Not only did the 2000 film manage to perpetuate negative stereotypes about Arabs but it also belies their historical movements.

The story introduces grotesque Arabic-speaking slavers who capture an injured and bereaved Maximus at his home in Spain.

Fun fact: there is no evidence that Arab slavers operated in Spain, as confirmed by the Gladiator’s historical consultant Professor Kathleen Coleman who was “unpleasantly surprised” when she saw the final film.

“I was under the impression that although the plot was fictitious [Dreamworks] wanted the atmosphere to be authentic,” she said. “But that is evidently not the case.”

The ugly-looking, Tuarag-wearing slavers take Maximus in a camel caravan to the Roman province of Zucchabar (Miliana in modern-day Algeria) which is presented as a dirty, sweaty, fly-invested burg.

The scene was shot at Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou located in an inland village in Morocco. It looks a lot different from the green, mountainous landscape of the region once inhabited by Romanised Amazighs (Berber).

Of course, Hollywood has to portray North Africa as a barren, desert wasteland.

British-Iranian Omid Djalili once again plays a slimy, unscrupulous Arab (remember him in The Mummy?) trying to get a “special price” for his slaves.

He also says he picked up Djimon Hounsou’s Numidian Juba from a “salt mine in Carthage.”

Juba was a well-known Numidian name — King Juba II was a client king of Numidia and married Cleopatra Selene, the only daughter of Queen Cleopatra VII and Mark Antony.

But given the brazen historical inaccuracies in the film, I wouldn’t be surprised if this line is a mistaken reference to the false myth of the Romans sowing the city of Carthage (Ancient Tunisia) with salt after winning the third Punic War – not the salt mines of Carthago Nova (New Carthage) in southern Spain.

A place where we’ve already established Arab slavers did not operate. A look at the first trailer for Gladiator II, the cast and interviews prove it has already prevented Middle Eastern, North African and Arab actors from playing real-life characters with shared ethnicities.

Let’s start with the brother emperors Geta and Caracalla. They are the sons of Septimius Severus and his second wife Julia Domna who briefly shared power after their father died in AD 211.

Severus was born in Leptis Magna, a trading city on the coast of Ancient Libya founded by Phoenician merchants from Tyre/Syria centuries earlier.

It was a prominent municipality in the Carthaginian Empire and when Severus became emperor, he turned it into a thriving metropolis. He had maternal Italian and paternal Punic ancestry and after a few civil wars, was proclaimed emperor of Rome in AD 193.

He was the first North African Emperor and that heritage was so much a part of his identity that the historian Cassius Dio described him as “Libyan by race.”

Severus was introduced to Julia Domna, a Syrian woman whose father was descended from the Arab Emesene dynasty.

Her surname is an Ancient Arabic word for “black” and she became Empress. Geta and Caracalla, therefore, would be of mixed ethnicity, mostly Arab-Middle Eastern and North African, but the actors playing them are not.

After her husband’s death, Julia Domna became a mediator between her sons but there’s no listing of the character on the film’s IMDb page nor sign of her in the trailer.

Instead, we have the return of Lucilla who was, in reality, executed in AD 182 for her involvement in the failed attempt to assassinate her brother Commodus.

She appears to be filling Julia Domna’s shoes which suggests another MENA character has been sidelined in favour of a white counterpart with history being altered to allow for it.

The trailer suggests Lucius spends time as a child in Egypt prior to Lucilla sending him to Numidia, thanks to pyramids and palm trees in the background of one scene showing him running away from approaching Romans.

Interestingly, Lucilla had two sons called Lucius: one with her first husband Lucius Verus, who died young, and another with her second husband Tiberius, a Roman general, who was murdered by Caracalla.

The film’s iteration appears to be a mash-up of them both.

We see a battle on Numidian soil after an attack on what appears to be a coastal fortress, launched by Acacius from the sea. If this is taking place around AD 211, then the Amazigh-nation was already a part of the Roman Province as a client state set up by Septimius Severus.

Why Rome is attacking is unclear unless they are playing with historical timelines again and showing Severus’ annexation of various North African settlements – including Castellum Dimmidi, Thabudeos, Gemellae, Vescera and Thubunae – to expand Numidia. But none of these colonies were coastal.

We see a female archer in armour aiming a bow and arrow which may be a nod to several North African legends of female warriors.

Asbyte was a Libyan princess and ally of Hannibal Barca during the Second Punic War, according to Silius Italicus’s poem Punica; there were the legendary Scythian warrior women who hailed from Ancient Iran and the famous Amazons who were believed to have once resided in Libya.

She appears to be played by the Israeli actress Yuval Gonen who is listed as the character Arishat (a Phoenician/Punic name) and later seen dead in the arms of Lucius with an arrow through her chest.

If this is his Numidian, Libyan or Carthaginian wife (we see him kissing a woman who looks just like the female warrior towards the end of the trailer) then as with Djimon Hounsou’s Juba in the first film, actors with Algerian, Libyan and Tunisian, even Lebanese or Syrian heritage, have been overlooked.

The same goes for Washington’s Macrinus. Seemingly based on the real-life figure Marcus Opellius Macrinus, he was a Praetorian prefect in charge of Rome’s civil affairs, but of Berber origin and born in Caesarea of Ancient Mauretania (modern Cherchell, Algeria).

Fearing for his life after it was prophesied that he and his son would reign over Rome, he enlisted a Roman soldier to be his “tool” in the assassination of Caracalla, and the film seems to follow suit.

Washington’s casting is certainly a better choice than seeing yet another white actor cast as a Roman politician; Derek Jacobi is back as Gracchus with Matt Lucas and Tim McInnerny joining as figures in Rome’s elite.

Like Macrinus, the actor has African heritage but Africa is a continent, not a country and too often Hollywood fails to represent the diversity of that fact.

Instead, they opt for racial binaries that limit Ancient figures to black and white. The only North African in the main cast list is that of Egyptian-Palestinian actress May Calamawy. Her casting was announced in May 2023 but she doesn’t appear in the trailer and no character information has been shared. So, did she make the cut?

Gladiator II looks set to be yet another blockbuster epic choosing to botch historical facts and project anachronistic ideas about race onto classical antiquity.

The Roman Empire and Roman North Africa was a place and period defined by its ethnic diversity and a throughline of those ethnicities can be traced to the people living across Algeria, Libya, Tunisia, Syria and Lebanon today and in the diaspora.

Unfortunately, people with that ancestry have once again been denied the opportunity to play a role in the commitment of their iconic heritage to cinematic history.

It’s the Hollywood story of our lives and I’m tired of it.

Hanna Flint is a film and TV critic, writer and author of Strong Female Character with bylines at Empire, Time Out, Elle, Town & Country, the Guardian, BBC Culture and IGN

Follow her here: @HannaFlint

[moroccantoursagency]

3 days tour from Marrakech to Merzouga desert

[chrissorensen]

Happy happy birthday to the lovely redhead, my muse, partner, love. Here's several pix I've never posted before from our travels.

Antigua, Guatemala

Hakone, Japan

Tulum, Mexico

Ait Ben Haddou, Morocco

Swipe ⬅️ to see them all.

[2t2r]

Le ksar de Aït-ben-Haddou, mont Saint-Michel berbère

Nouvel article publié sur https://www.2tout2rien.fr/le-ksar-de-ait-ben-haddou-mont-saint-michel-berbere/

Le ksar de Aït-ben-Haddou, mont Saint-Michel berbère

[maslimanny]

Wonderful Ait ben haddou Morocco!!

[divineunisexsaloon]

A 3 Day Trip from Marrakech to Merzouga: Discover Morocco’s Desert Wonders

A 3 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga offers an unforgettable adventure through some of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes Morocco has to offer. From the bustling streets of Marrakech to the serene dunes of the Sahara Desert, this tour provides a perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Morocco, this journey will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the highlights of a 3 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga, and why it’s one of the best ways to experience Morocco’s majestic desert landscapes.

Day 1: Marrakech to Ait Ben Haddou – Journey Through the Atlas Mountains

Your 3 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga starts with an early departure from the vibrant city of Marrakech. As you leave behind the bustling markets and busy streets, you’ll begin your journey through the Atlas Mountains. This scenic drive will give you a glimpse into the rural life of Morocco, with panoramic views of valleys, small Berber villages, and lush green landscapes that contrast with the arid desert ahead.

Your first major stop is Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its traditional adobe architecture and impressive kasbahs. This ancient fortified village has been the backdrop for several Hollywood films, including Gladiator and Lawrence of Arabia. A walk through Ait Ben Haddou feels like stepping back in time, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the beautiful earthen buildings.

After exploring Ait Ben Haddou, you’ll continue your drive to Ouarzazate, often referred to as the “Gateway to the Sahara.” Here, you’ll have the chance to visit Taourirt Kasbah, a stunning 18th-century fortress that once served as the residence of the Glaoui family. After a day filled with historical and cinematic sites, you’ll rest in a local guesthouse or hotel for a peaceful night.

Day 2: Ouarzazate to Merzouga – The Road to the Sahara

On the second day of your 3 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga, you’ll continue your journey toward the desert. The drive from Ouarzazate to Merzouga will take you through the Dades Valley and Todra Gorge, two of Morocco’s most scenic natural landmarks. The Dades Valley is known for its dramatic cliffs and picturesque kasbahs, while Todra Gorge is famous for its towering rock walls and narrow passages, making it a perfect place for a brief hike.

As you get closer to Merzouga, the landscape gradually transforms from green valleys and rocky terrain to the vast, sweeping sands of the Sahara Desert. Once in Merzouga, you’ll be welcomed by Berber guides who will accompany you on a camel trek into the desert. The camel ride is an unforgettable experience, as you travel across the towering dunes of Erg Chebbi, one of the most famous sand dunes in Morocco.

The highlight of the day will be watching the stunning desert sunset as the colors of the sky and the dunes change before your eyes. After the camel ride, you’ll arrive at a traditional Berber desert camp where you’ll spend the night under the stars. Enjoy a delicious Moroccan dinner, followed by traditional music and dancing around the campfire.

Day 3: Sunrise in the Sahara – Return to Marrakech

On your final day of the 3 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga, you’ll wake up early to witness the incredible sunrise over the Sahara Desert. Watching the sun rise over the endless dunes is a truly magical moment that will stay with you forever. After breakfast at the desert camp, you’ll return to Merzouga on camelback.

The journey back to Marrakech is long but filled with scenic beauty. As you make your way back, you’ll pass through Rissani, a town known for its historical significance and vibrant markets. The road will take you through the Ziz Valley, famous for its date palm groves and dramatic palm-filled landscapes. There will be several opportunities to stop along the way to stretch your legs and take in the views.

By the late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive back in Marrakech, marking the end of your unforgettable 3 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga. Whether you’re reflecting on the vastness of the desert, the cultural sites you’ve explored, or the incredible experiences you’ve had, this trip will leave you with lasting memories.

Why Choose a 3 Day Trip from Marrakech to Merzouga?

Diverse Landscapes: From the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, this tour takes you through a variety of landscapes, each offering its own unique beauty.

Camel Trekking: Riding a camel through the dunes of the Sahara is a must-do experience that immerses you in the heart of the desert.

Cultural Immersion: Visit historical sites like Ait Ben Haddou, interact with Berber communities, and enjoy traditional Moroccan food and music.

Well-Planned Itinerary: With everything organized, this 3-day tour ensures you see the best of Morocco without any stress.

Conclusion

A 3 day trip from Marrakech to Merzouga is a fantastic way to explore Morocco’s diverse landscapes, from the vibrant city life to the tranquil beauty of the Sahara. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or simply a chance to relax in the desert, this tour has something for everyone. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the magic of Morocco—book your tour today and get ready for the trip of a lifetime.