Foum ZguidFoum Zguid and the Historic Kasbah of Oumhensh
Foum Zguid is a charming small town situated in the southeastern part of Morocco, within the Tata Province of the Souss-Massa region. This town acts as a gateway to the expansive Sahara Desert, making it a popular stop for travellers preparing for desert excursions.
Known for its vast desert landscapes, which include sweeping dunes and rugged terrain, Foum Zguid is an ideal starting point for those venturing into the desert wilderness.
The Kasbah of Oumhensh
One of the prominent landmarks in Foum Zguid is the Kasbah of Oumhensh, a historically significant fortress that played a crucial role during the transition of nomadic tribes to a semi-nomadic lifestyle focused on agriculture. This kasbah is notable for being the first major construction in the area, marking a significant shift from traditional nomadic living to a more settled existence with agriculture.
Definition and Purpose of a Kasbah
A kasbah traditionally refers to a fortified citadel or fortress commonly found in North African and Middle Eastern architecture. Designed primarily for defensive purposes, kasbahs are characterized by their high walls, which are usually constructed from mud-brick or stone, and often feature corner towers for added protection. Over time, the function of kasbahs evolved beyond mere defence; they became residences for local rulers, administrative centres, and important trading hubs.
The Structure of the Kasbah of Oumhensh
The Kasbah of Oumhensh in Foum Zguid is a prime example of such a structure. It is distinguished by its four main doors, each named after one of the resident families:
- Imi Nait Amer (the Forum Door)
- Imi Nait Nimzil
- Imi Nait Ali
- Imi Nait Imozaz
Each door is guarded to regulate entry into the kasbah, ensuring that only residents are allowed access. At night, entry requires a password, which changes daily, to maintain security.
The kasbah also features four towers, each standing 20 meters high. These towers are used for surveillance, allowing residents to spot approaching visitors from afar. Within the kasbah, there is also a mosque that serves both religious and educational purposes, playing a central role in the community’s spiritual and intellectual life.
Leadership and Community Structure
At the heart of the kasbah’s social structure are the family leaders known as “kbirs” (elders). These individuals are responsible for resolving disputes within their families and representing their interests in interactions with other families. The role of a kbir requires wisdom, wealth, and the ability to effectively address problems, making it a position of significant responsibility.
To support the community, each family contributes to a communal fund, which is used for emergencies, such as death or marriage celebrations, as well as for collective needs like cleaning shared water sources. Additionally, there is a separate fund for the entire tribe, further enhancing communal support and cooperation.
Gardens and Water Management
Directly behind the kasbah lies the “leading” — small gardens used for cultivating vegetables, grass for animals, and other essential crops. These gardens serve a vital role in maintaining a cool environment within the kasbah, as the oasis area provides natural air conditioning by cooling the hot winds from the Sahara before they reach the kasbah.
Water distribution within the kasbah was traditionally managed using a technique called “adrim.” This system allocated approximately one hour per person to water their garden, with time being gauged by the shadow of a wall, as there were no clocks available at that time.
Family Structures
The Kasbah is home to two distinct family structures. In one type, the father is the head of the household and makes all major decisions. Even as children grow up and marry, they remain under the father’s authority. In the second structure, the grandmother is the head of the household, making decisions based on her extensive life experience. This arrangement reflects the respect accorded to elder women who are seen as wise and capable of managing family affairs effectively.
Overall, the Kasbah of Oumhensh stands as a testament to the historical and cultural evolution of the region, showcasing the integration of traditional nomadic practices with settled agricultural life. It offers insight into the rich heritage of the local community and its adaptability over time.
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