The Qara Prison, also known as the Habs Qara, is an underground prison located in Meknes, Morocco. Built during the reign of Sultan Moulay Ismail (1672β1727), it is part of the historic city's imperial complex. The prison is famous for its vast network of underground chambers and corridors, which have given rise to numerous legends about its purpose and history.
According to historical accounts, the prison was used to hold captives, including Christian slaves and political prisoners. The name 'Qara' is believed to derive from the Arabic word 'qara' (ΩΨ±ΨΉ), meaning 'pumpkin' or 'gourd,' possibly referring to the shape of the underground cells. However, some sources suggest it may be a corruption of 'cara,' meaning 'face' in Spanish, reflecting the diverse origins of prisoners.
Legends surrounding the prison include tales of secret tunnels leading to the royal palace and vast underground dungeons where prisoners were kept in darkness. Modern archaeological studies have confirmed the existence of extensive underground structures, but many details remain unverified. The site is now a tourist attraction, drawing visitors interested in Moroccan history and folklore.
