The ksar, or ighrem,in morocco is a fortified village typical of Berber architecture in North Africa, particularly in southern Tunisia and Morocco. It is predominantly or traditionally inhabited by Berbers (Amazigh). It is a fortified village consisting of a square (or rectangular) area enclosed by walls. The heart of a ksar
, which are generally located in hill areas, contains houses and granaries. These structures are often perched on promontories or above oases, providing natural protection against attacks from nomadic tribes. Built primarily from locally sourced materials such as clay, stone, and palm wood, the ksar blends seamlessly into its surroundings.
Each ksar is made up of ghorfas, vaulted cells used to store provisions, especially during periods of drought. Some ksour, like the Ksar of Tissergate in Morocco, are accessible through a single gate, allowing for strict control of entries and exits, further enhancing their defensive function.
The use of earth and natural fibers not only provides insulation from extreme desert temperatures but also reinforces the ksar’s harmonious integration with the landscape. These villages, both practical and protective, reflect traditional engineering perfectly adapted to the extreme conditions of the North African desert.
Morocco Expedition Tours 