Algeria’s hidden gem.
If you are looking for a unique and mysterious destination in the Sahara desert, you might want to visit the Ksar of Draa in Timimoun, Algeria. This ancient citadel, also known as the Timimoun Citadel, is a circular fortress that stands out in the middle of an ocean of dunes. Its history and purpose are still shrouded in mystery, and its architecture is unlike any other in the region.
The Ksar of Draa is one of the most famous and fascinating ksars in Algeria. A ksar is a fortified village typical of the Maghreb, the area of North Africa that includes Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya and Mauritania. A ksar usually consists of granaries and houses, and is located on hills or raised points near oases or waterways in order to be better protected from attacks by nomadic tribes. The word ksar comes from Arabic and means “castle” or “palace”.
The Ksar of Draa was built in the 14th century and is considered one of the most significant and well-preserved ksars in the region. However, what makes it stand out is its circular shape, which is very rare among ksars. The Ksar of Draa has a diameter of about 60 meters and a height of about 10 meters. It has a single entrance from the north and no windows facing outwards.
The Ksar of Draa has a unique design that makes it hard to explore. It has a double wall, one made of stone and one made of clay, and between them there are rooms on three levels. There are no windows facing outside, and no stairs connecting the floors. The only entrance is from the north, and there are no communicating rooms inside. It seems like it was made to be isolated and secretive. Maybe there are some hidden secrets or treasures inside, who knows?
The exact function and origin of this unique ancient structure are still unknown. Some hypotheses suggest that it was a caravanserai, a building that was used to stop caravans crossing the desert. A caravanserai typically consisted of a wall enclosing a large courtyard and a portico, where travelers could find shelter, food and water. Some caravanserais also had rooms for travelers and even libraries, where cultural exchanges could take place.
Other hypotheses suggest that it was a military post or a prison, where enemies or criminals were kept isolated and under surveillance. Some locals believe that it was occupied by Jews from the Timimoun region for a certain period of time, but there is no historical evidence to support this claim.
Visiting the Ksar of Draa is not an easy task. The citadel is located in a remote area, surrounded by sand dunes and harsh weather conditions. To reach it, you need an expert guide who knows the terrain and can navigate through the desert. You also need a four-wheel drive vehicle or a camel to cross the dunes. But once you get there, the stunning views and the mysterious atmosphere of the place will definitely compensate you for the arduous journey.
The Ksar of Draa is one of Algeria’s hidden gems, a testimony of its rich and diverse cultural heritage. It is a place that deserves more attention and preservation, as well as more research and exploration.
