Some 70 km from the city of Agadir, the fortified attic Agadir Inoumar is a jewel of the Amazigh architecture. In the tradition of the Igoudar, deeply rooted in the Western Anti-Atlas, Agadir Inoumar is considered, with its half hectare of area, as the largest. It was built more than three centuries ago, these charming places reflect an ancestral culture, both architectural and social.
As a family, explore these simple and majestic remains, bearers of a true lesson on community living.
At first glance, the structure seems to emerge from the ground and integrates perfectly into the surrounding landscape. The walls are made of soil and stones, and the sun rays have gradually restored the walls natural ocher tint. The roofs are made of Argan wood and oleander, in addition to using tree plunk pillars.
Agadir Inoumar is a multi-story building separated into 5 blocks with a total of 295 niches. They are accessed by tiny cedar or oak wood doors. Large flat stones emerging from the walls function as stairs leading up to the second floor.
No word can entirely describe the monument’s magnificence and grandeur. It is possible to visit the site to reflect on this heritage, and especially to experience and comprehend its significance, as stated so beautifully by its descendants.
It is now a major tourist destination, and it is managed and preserved by an association. It costs 50 Dhs per adult to visit.
Agadir Inoumar is a testimony to architectural and, more importantly, organizational innovation. The cells belonged to the families who helped build it, and each family frequently had an entire floor, the ownership of which is still passed down to this day. They were used to keep food, valuables, and documents safe. There is also a water tank, a mosque, and a shelter for horses and animals. The management of the places was given to the Amin (meaning “a trusted man”), who was in charge of watching and maintaining the common areas and stores.
Agadir Inoumar also served as a defense line. It functioned as a place of refuge for women, children, and the elderly fleeing attacks of other tribes. A guard tower highlights this defensive character, which is enhanced by the natural defense provided by the fig trees and the Oued (river).
This wonder is only 1h30min from Agadir, and the roads are accessible by light vehicles up to a hundred meters from the location.
From Agadir, take the N1 road to Ait Melloul, then the P1009 to Biougra. After that, take R105 to Imi Mqourn. Take the asphalt road to the left for 6.5 kilometers to Tagounite village. Turn right shortly before reaching this village and follow the road to the douar of Ighirane. Park your car in the shade and walk for one kilometer along the road that leads to the destination. (30.163250, -9.108944)