The ksar of Ait Ben Haddou has been fortified since the 11th century, during the Almoravid era, though most existing structures date from the 17th century and were built using traditional earthen techniques. in the Ounila Valley made it a key stop along the trans-Saharan trade route, connecting Marrakech to the Dra’a Valley via the Tizi n'Tichka pass. Similar fortified villages, such as Tamdaght, lined this route. In recent decades, the ksar's population has declined, with only a few families still living inside. Most locals now reside across the river in modern homes and rely on agriculture and tourism. A pedestrian bridge built in 2011 connects the village to the ksar, improving access and supporting preservation efforts. In September 2023, the ksar was damaged by an earthquake, with reports of cracks, partial collapses, and ongoing structural concerns. Despite this, Ait Ben Haddou remains a UNESCO World Heritage site and a treasured symbol of Morocco’s history and architecture.