Taouriet Kasbah

While for centuries people from the Atlas, Draa and Dades valleys went to Ouarzazate to do business, the French established a messenger garrison town here in 1920 to oversea their colonial interests. The movie business took of after the French protectorate left in the 1950s and today it is often referre to a "Ouallywood". Ali Baba and the 40 thieves - 1920, Lawrence of Arabia, to the more recent Gladiator and Game of Thrones. Ali was great at explaining the ancient history - in the 11th century it was a major stopping point for caravans- there was a lookout point at the top - caravans used fire at night and silver reflecting in the sun to communicate how far away they were- each 5km. There was no formal market day as there later was (and still exists in many Towns around the world), as the market day occurred only when caravans came through. Niles and Julian are so sick of the ladies wanting to take photos and shop. We saw the best selection of interesting crafts and art today- this region is mostly the Berber people.