Amridil Kasbah, the kasbah on the 50 dirham note

The kasbah on the 50 dirham note

Unlike many kasbahs, Amridil remains well preserved and is still managed by the grandchildren of its builder, Mhamed Naciri El Haskouri. He was the son of Ahmed Bennacer, founder of the Zaouia Naciria in Tamegroute. The kasbah was built in the seventeenth century as a zaouia, an Islamic school for teaching the Quran.

Because of its historical importance, Amridil was featured on the old 50 dirham banknote. Today it is a landmark of the Ouarzazate region. Guided tours explain its history and show the traditional tools once used in daily life, from the arcaded courtyard to the old bread oven.

At the edge of the Skoura oasis

Kasbah Amridil stands on the Oued El Hejjaj at the edge of the Skoura oasis, so its towers look out over green palm trees with the High Atlas rising behind. If you are heading to the Merzouga desert, a quick stop here is well worth it. If you plan to spend the day in Skoura, the oasis offers many more places to see on foot or on horseback.

How to get to Amridil

Amridil is 38 km from Ouarzazate on national route N10. Follow the sign for Amridil Kasbah, turn left and drive 1 km to a dry riverbed; the kasbah is on the other side. Grand taxis charge 15 DH per seat, or you can take a bus toward Tinghir for 10 DH.

Amridil is also the first stop of the Quad Ouarzazate 1000 Kasbahs and Todra Gorges day trip, and of the Erg Chebbi desert tours that leave Ouarzazate through Skoura. Opening hours and fees can change, so check them locally before you go.