Morocco - Targua
Hidden in the valley, resting
at an altitude of 1200m in the Atlas Mountains (60 km from Ouarazazate and 140 km Marrakech), only a stones
throw away from the road is found the village of Targua. This
ageless jewel of Morocco will touch the heart of any hardened
traveler.
Situated on the side of the valley
this mountain Berber village is of historic interest; with the
southern approach of the valley protected by the Kasbah of Ikiss
and the top of the pass slowing down any invading force with
its vertical rock walls, the village has for generations been
a secure home for the 300 inhabitants.
The people of this valley are of deep Berber standing, an understanding
of nature and the natural elements has lead this village through
the ages. With the forever growing pressure of modern day life
knocking on the door the village has now opened her doors due
to the necessity to find employment in the valley for the young
population.
The People
A longing for new stories by
this educated Berber population as will give you many happy
hours of conversation over the forever full pot of tea.
An afternoon was spent at my van with some of the family. The
carpet was rolled out and the table was filled with tea and
spicy hobs (bread). The conversation
moved from the finer areas of the English language, to the quality
of the bread baked in the oven.
The watermill
Over 400 years old. This
example is found hidden in the trees at the side of the road.
Just stop and the locals will be happy to show you around. If
you have the urge for adventure, take a guide and see if you
can make it to the 13 century Portuguese archaeological site
which is hidden from view high up in the mountains...
Power: At the moment the water is not directed through the mill,
By moving a few stones above the mill the flow can be diverted
through the blades giving power to the machinery.
Gear Box: By dropping the Blades deeper into the running water
the current from the stream will accelerate the grinding stone
and in turn the speed at which the flour is produced so giving
different grades of flour.
Natural Life
Milk, Butter,
Walnuts, Wheat, Apples, Red Berries, Potatoes, Onions, Mint,
Cherries and Apricots are all part of the villages local produce.
With Lamb, Goat, Chicken and Cow making the meat course, you
can not go wrong.
The Domestic Animals are kept in the house, giving
warmth and milk close at hand. Who needs a fridge when the fresh
either lives in the house or the garden.
The wild life of the region keeps the domestic animals near
to the house. Wolf, wild dog and fox can be spotted on the higher
ground. Pigeon. Nightingale, Stork, Falcon, Pelican, Eagles
can be seen floating on the air waves.
