Tiznit travel guide

Background

One theory goes that Tiznit was originally founded by Fatima Tiznitia, who discovered a spring here. Another is that it derives its name from Lalla Zninia. The main town was established in 1882 by the great reforming sultan Moulay Hassan (1873-1894), part of a general policy of strengthening the Alaouite Dynasty’s authority in the south. He had a number of separate ksar enclosed within the 5 km of walls. There are 36 towers and although there are eight gates in all, the three most important are Bab Ouled Jarrar, Bab el Aouina and the Gate of the Three Windows – a later addition by the French.

It was at Tiznit that El Hiba had himself proclaimed sultan in 1912, challenging the French who were extending their power. In 1912, the French already controlled northeastern Morocco, the Chaouia and Casablanca. El Hiba, acting on the same basis of uniting the Muslims of Morocco to resist the infidel, organized southern resistance, declaring himself defender of the faith. A powerful confederacy seemed to be emerging, and El Hiba entered Marrakech in August 1912 unchallenged. The adventure ended in September, however, when French troops under Colonel Mangin stormed the city, outgunning El Hiba’s forces.

Ins and outs

Getting there

Coming in from north or south by bus you get off at the Pl du Mechouar, the central square, once the parade ground for the garrisons here. Both CTM and SATAS have their ticket offices here. Grands taxis stop on Av Mohammed V, close to the Hotel CTM and the banks. Most of the cheap hotels are situated close by. The taxi ride from Inezgane costs around 20dh.

Tiznit

Bus

Most buses and grands taxis arrive at Pl du Mechouar. Several services a day which go to Tata, Agadir, Marrakech, Casablanca, Tafraoute, Sidi Ifni and Goulimine, and on to Laâyoune. Buses to Tafroaute take 3 hrs. The early morning CTM bus leaves from Bab Ouled Jarrar for Casablanca, via Agadir, Essaouira, Safi and El Jadida.

Taxi

Grands taxis leave from Pl du Mechouar: Sidi Moussa beach (5dh), and Sidi Ifni (20dh).

Banks

Cash points on the main road outside the entrance to the square.