Rissani, located between Erfoud and Merzouga in the Moroccan Sahara Desert, is steeped in history.  Once the site of a fabulous medieval city state, it is the 17^th century birthplace of the Alaouite dynasty, as reflected in its Mausoleum of Moulay Ali Cherif, the founder of the dynasty.  Its bustling souks offer a glimpse into traditional Moroccan desert life.