Morocco’s Aït Ben Haddou: Hollywood’s Hidden Gem in the Atlas Mountains

"Far from the hustle and bustle of the cities stands a place of enchanting beauty. This is the village of Aït Ben Haddou, which emerges like a mirage from the desert, majestically perched on the hillside at the top of the Atlas mountain valley," detailed the Italian portal "Siviaggia" which devoted an article to this historic site located 30 km from Ouarzazate. In this village, several "beautiful scenes" have been shot for films like "Gladiator", "The Mummy" and "Alexander".

For the specialized media, "this magical place offers a unique setting where the lush palm groves meet the sunny blue sky softened by the pale colors of the desert." The beauty of this village withstands the test of time. Created since the 17th century, and recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, Aït Ben Haddou has lost none of its authenticity, notes the Italian media, highlighting the red clay buildings, the towers and ramparts as well as the mountains and the desert that make the uniqueness of the traditional architecture of this part of Morocco.

This village, considered the Hollywood of Morocco, "is a must-see destination that, once visited, remains forever etched in the heart," adds the specialized media, stating that on this site, "visitors breathe an unparalleled peace among the ruins of a bygone era." In Aït Ben Haddou, "the dream blends with reality," concludes the Italian portal, describing Morocco as a "grandiose" country, "full of charm, colors, sounds and bewitching scents".