Built up by the French from the start of the 1930s, the town was long a site of conflict and resistance to the colonial presence. Now the sleepy little village with a large palm grove hosts desert trekkers and daytrippers keen on experiencing the wilds of the Sahara, and the impressive Erg Chebbi dunes. October brings the date harvest and the Date Festival. In the town’s souk, stall after stall is piled and overflowing with the blessed desert fruit. Locals arrive in from all around the countryside for three days of music, dance, and celebration.