Here a
Leo's words, describing a town only 80 kilmeters from Marrakech (exact
distance between Ouzoud and Marrakech), whose attributes are strangely
similar to the Ouzoud se see today. Though Leo calls this town: "The
New El Gumuha" (probably "al Jumma el djedid- the new Friday
souk)
"This
town is a forteress on a high mountain, surrounded by several hills.
Below this forteress is the source of the Asifnual river, the river
of the rumors. The river was thus named, as it falls from the mountain
with great big noise and digs a deep ditch, similar to the Hell of Tivoli,
near Rome.
This
town was built recently. There are nearly 1000 homes. For some time
now it has been under the tyranny of a relative of the ruler of Marrakech.
This fortress has a good garrison and cavalery. It earns most of its
income, 10 000 'ducats', from the households in this part of the Atlas.
The people are quite friendly with the Arabs, covering them with frequent
gifts, which angers the rulers of Marrakech.
The
people are polite, well dressed and the town is busy, with many craftsmen
and artists. This is in large part due to its proximity to Marrakech,
only 80 kilometers away.
Amongst
the mountains there are some beautiful fruit and vegetable gardens.
People grow barley, linen etc.. There are also a great many goats.
However,
the men are quite barbaric, and ridiculously jealous of their wives!
I
spent some time in this town, and stayed with a relative of mine, who
once lived in Fes but had been exiled as he had incurred much debt to
cover his alchemy experiments. But today he is secretary to the ruler
of this town." (Leo, 97)
