Rissani

Rissani is a town located in the Tafilalet region of southeastern Morocco. It is situated at the eastern edge of the Sahara Desert, near the Ziz River. Historically, Rissani was an important stopping point on ancient caravan routes that connected the Mediterranean coast with sub-Saharan Africa. Its strategic location contributed to its growth as a trading center.

The town is most famous for its large and vibrant souk, or market, which is one of the largest in the region and operates on specific days of the week. This market is a hub for local commerce, where a variety of goods, including dates, spices, handicrafts, and livestock, are traded. Rissani is also recognized for its traditional mud-brick architecture, characteristic of many Saharan settlements.

Rissani holds significance as the ancestral home of the Alaouite dynasty, which has ruled Morocco since the 17th century. Moulay Ali Cherif, an ancestor of the current Moroccan king, is buried in Rissani, and his mausoleum is a point of interest for visitors. The town's economy is largely based on agriculture, particularly date cultivation, and trade. Its proximity to the desert also makes it a gateway for tourists interested in exploring the Moroccan Sahara.