HomeAfricaThe Majestic Draa Ksar in Timimoun, Algeria
The Majestic Draa Ksar in Timimoun, Algeria
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There is no place more majestic than the Draa Ksar. It dominates an ocean of dunes in the middle of an ocean of dunes. In the middle of the desert, it stands out with its characteristic circular shape, and its history has been lost throughout the centuries. Ksar Draa is one of Algeria’s most famous monuments. The circular design is characterized by its location in the Timimoun desert and is believed to be at least 1,000 years old.
It is located in the south-central region of Algeria, in Adrar Province, in Timimoun District. Known for its red-ochre buildings, Timimoun is famous for its architecture. Around the outside of the ksar are circular walls that are two meters high.
This circular one also has a double wall, one externally made of stone and the other internally made entirely of clay. Between the two walls are a series of rooms on three levels, with a single entrance from the north. It is hypothesized that the various floors were accessible by internal stairs since there are no exposed steps.
According to the legend, the design of the palace is intended to protect it from erosion and facilitate wind movement, but no information about the palace’s history has been revealed even among locals. Surrounded by a sea of dunes, the old ruin stands out in the center of the desert. Though its history has been lost over time. Visits to this place are very difficult.
Throughout the year, there is little rainfall in the area, and the summers are hot and humid. Winters are warm and dry. It reaches almost 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit) on average each year. Ksar Draa is not an easy place to visit without an expert guide.
Although the area around it is incredible, it would be unpleasant to explore once you get there. Even among locals, no information is available about this building. Caravansarai is a building that consists of a wall enclosing a large courtyard and a portico that was used to stop caravans from crossing the desert.