Kasbah of Beni Mellal: An Alaouite Fortress in Morocco
Site at a Glance
- Rating
- 4.6
- Popularity
- Low
- Country
- Morocco
- Primary era
- Early Modern
- Eras represented
- Early Modern
- Civilizations
- Alaouite
- Site type
- Military
- Remains
- Fort
History
The Kasbah of Beni Mellal is a fortified stronghold in Beni Mellal, Morocco, built in 1688 by the Alaouite Sultan Moulay Ismail during the early modern period. Also known as Borj Ras el Ain, it was established to protect the city from invaders.
The kasbah stands on the summit of a mountain beside Ain Asserdoune, overlooking the plain and the city of Beni Mellal. Its elevated position supported its defensive purpose and connected the stronghold with the surrounding landscape.
The Moroccan Ministry of Culture has classified the Kasbah of Beni Mellal as a national historic monument.