The ksar, a group of earthen buildings surrounded by high walls, is a traditional pre-Saharan habitat. The houses crowd together within the defensive walls, which are reinforced by corner towers.

The ksar, a group of earthen buildings surrounded by high walls, is a traditional pre-Saharan habitat. The houses crowd together within the defensive walls, which are reinforced by corner towers.

The ancient capital's dignified air of yesteryear is in part generated by earthen walls: the walls of the imperial palace, shrines, temples and even private properties. Kyoto is blessed with soil ...