Discover the Ancient Igudar: Morocco's Oldest Banking System in Agadir

The Igudar, located in Agadir, Morocco, represent one of the oldest known banking systems in the world. These structures, also known as "agadir" or "igoudar" (plural of "agadir"), are ancient communal granaries used by the Amazigh (Berber) people.

The Igudar serve as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Amazigh community. In a time when modern banking was non-existent, these granaries functioned as both storage facilities and places for safeguarding valuable resources like grain. The sheer amount of rocks collected and meticulously fit together to construct these walls is an incredible feat of ancient engineering. One user even paused to appreciate the labor and dedication required to build these robust structures.

A particularly fascinating aspect of the Igudar is the ancient locking mechanism used to secure the granaries. The lock, identified by one commenter as a Schlage Grain Bin model, dates back to 527 BC. The intricate design and functionality of the lock left many viewers in awe, with one remarking, "I would not have guessed that object was a key if its use wasn't demonstrated."

The video also sparked some light-hearted and humorous comments. One user joked, "Hi, I like to withdraw 5 bushels of wheat from my savings account," while another quipped, "On the next episode of Storage Wars!!" Another comment pondered the possibility of a future where wealth is once again measured in stored calories, a nod to the historical significance of these granaries.

Beyond the practical and historical aspects, the Igudar are also a cultural treasure. They offer a glimpse into the lifestyle and traditions of the Amazigh people, who utilized these structures not just for storage but as communal spaces that fostered cooperation and mutual support.

The Igudar in Agadir, Morocco, are indeed an amazing place, as one viewer enthusiastically noted. For history buffs and those fascinated by ancient engineering, these communal granaries offer a captivating glimpse into a bygone era.