Family Adventure in Taroudant, Morocco
Day 6: Stepping Back in Time: Exploring Taroudant's History and Heritage
Discover Taroudant's rich history at the Centre de la mémoire historique de la résistance and wander through the iconic Bab El Kasbah.
Echoes of the Past in Taroudant
Today was a day of diving deep into the historical heart of Taroudant. With Ama in tow, and Klaus ever the patient photographer, we set out to explore the stories etched into the city’s walls and preserved within its monuments. It’s amazing how much history a single city can hold, and I was eager to uncover it all.
Our morning began with a delightful breakfast at Snack House. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast – msemen (buttery flatbread) with honey and a pot of mint tea. Klaus, ever the fan of the familiar, went for an omelet, while Ama happily munched on some fruit. Fuelled up, we were ready to start our day of exploration.
Our first stop was the Centre de la mémoire historique de la résistance (Center of Historical Memory of the Resistance). I had read about it, and was eager to learn more about the Moroccan resistance movement. The centre was smaller than I expected, but packed with information and artifacts. It offered a poignant look into Morocco's struggle for independence. The exhibits detailed the lives and sacrifices of those who fought against colonial rule. I was particularly moved by the personal stories of ordinary Moroccans who risked everything for their country's freedom. Ama, of course, was more interested in the old photographs and the various artifacts on display, but I did my best to explain the significance of it all to her. Klaus, with his architect's eye, was fascinated by the building itself, noting the traditional design elements and the way it blended seamlessly into the surrounding cityscape.
Explore Morocco's heritage at the Centre de la Mémoire Historique de la Résistance, a local history museum in Taroudant highlighting the fight against colonialism.
History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.
After the Centre, we strolled towards Bab El Kasbah, one of the city's most iconic gates. The walk itself was a treat, passing through bustling streets filled with the sights and sounds of daily life. We passed by Craft Médical, a shop that caught my eye with its displays of traditional Moroccan crafts. I couldn’t resist popping in for a quick browse. The shop was a treasure trove of handmade goods, from intricately carved wooden boxes to colorful ceramics and textiles. I picked up a beautiful handwoven scarf for my mother and a small wooden toy for Ama.
Discover the enchanting views and rich culture at Bab El Kasbah in Taroudant, Morocco, a must-visit observation deck for every traveler.
Bab El Kasbah is truly impressive. The grand entranceway is framed by three arches and is considered the main gate to the city. As we walked through the gate, I imagined what it must have been like centuries ago, when caravans and traders passed through these very same arches, bringing goods and stories from distant lands. Klaus took some amazing photos of Ama playing near the gate, the sunlight casting long shadows on the ancient stone.
Lunch was at Café et Restaurant Attadamoune, a charming spot recommended by a local we met at the Centre de la mémoire historique de la résistance. The restaurant had a lovely, relaxed atmosphere, and the menu was filled with traditional Moroccan dishes. I opted for a tagine with chicken and olives, while Klaus chose the couscous. Ama, predictably, wanted French fries, which they happily provided. The food was delicious, and the mint tea was the perfect accompaniment.
In the afternoon, we wandered back towards the center of town, soaking in the atmosphere and doing a bit more shopping. The souks of Taroudant are a sensory overload in the best possible way. The air is filled with the aroma of spices, the sounds of bartering, and the vibrant colors of the merchandise. I bought some argan oil (a must-have when in Morocco) and a few small souvenirs for friends back in Potsdam. Ama was fascinated by the snake charmers in the main square, though I kept a safe distance.
As the sun began to set, we found ourselves at Snack Omar for dinner. It was a simple, unassuming place, but the food was hearty and satisfying. We shared a plate of grilled meats and some fresh salads, the perfect way to end a long day of exploring. The owner was incredibly friendly, chatting with us about life in Taroudant and offering us tips for our remaining days in the city.
Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Snack Omar, a charming restaurant in Taroudant offering traditional dishes and warm hospitality.
Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Maison d'hôtes oasis de tiout and Magazin De Poterie. I am particularly excited about visiting the pottery shop, as I would love to bring home a unique piece of Moroccan ceramics. We might also check out Care Club, a local bar, for a relaxing evening drink.
As I reflect on today, I am struck by how much history and culture is packed into this relatively small city. Taroudant truly feels like a step back in time, a place where the traditions of the past are still very much alive. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience it with my family, and I look forward to more adventures tomorrow.
I'm also thinking about the portable phone charger and first-aid kit we forgot. I'll need to remember to buy them tomorrow. It's always the little things that can make a big difference when traveling with a toddler!
The call to prayer echoes through the evening air, a soothing reminder of the rhythm of life here. Time to rest and recharge for another day of discovery.
Goodnight from Taroudant!
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Taroudant, Morocco, with your family for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Sous Valley.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation: Software Developer specializing in AI applications for sustainable agriculture.
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Country: Germany
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Age: 27
Hello, fellow travelers! I'm Abena Mensah, a software developer from Ghana, currently living in Germany with my husband and daughter. My passion for sustainable living, combined with my love for exploring new cultures, has led me to create this blog. Here, I share my travel experiences, focusing on eco-conscious adventures, cultural immersion, and authentic connections with local communities. Join me as I navigate the world, one sustainable step at a time!
- Sustainable living
- African history and culture
- Technological innovation
- Global cuisine
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