A Typo-Morphological Investigation: The Ksar Ait Benhaddou

Abstract

Ait Benhaddou stands as a distinctive example of a well-preserved earth settlement in southern Morocco. Located in the semi-desert basin near Ouarzazate city on the side of a hill, the fortified town is constructed primarily of rammed earth. The city communicates a progressive urban pattern arrangement, featuring distinct characters in terms of architectural style and religious identity and a noticeable development in the building typologies.

The study investigates the typo-morphological analysis via the application of the Caniggian school of thought, which identifies urban tissue development through a theoretical guide of attractors and repellers that shape the direction of urban growth.

The theoretical framework delivers a conscious explanation of the formation of Ait Benhaddou on a territorial and urban scale by first investigating the territorial setting that reveals the towns placement according to geographical attractors. Further, a closer look at the urban scale provides a guide for comprehending the urban tissue following the theory of urban attractors. To further understand the logic of the urban expansion, social, religious, and commercial history are included to support the typo-morphological investigation and form an all-inclusive understanding of Ksar Ait Benhaddous expansion.