Ben Smime Tuberculosis Sanatorium

The Abandoned Tuberculosis Sanatorium is nestled in the picturesque Middle Atlas region, near Ben Smime village. Surrounded by 40 acres of nature and at an altitude of 1,650 meters, this imposing structure looms with an air of forgotten grandeur. The architecture of the sanatorium is striking: an eight-story, 180-meter-long building smacked in the middle of a forest populated by cedars, oaks, and pine trees.  Its design incorporates brutalist elements and elements meant to promote healing, with ample natural light and fresh mountain air. 

Originally envisioned by a wealthy Frenchman, Maurice Bonjean, construction of the sanatorium began in 1948 (in 1946, according to some accounts), culminating in its inauguration in 1955. Designed to house patients suffering from tuberculosis, the facility was equipped with 400 beds, supported by a team of four doctors and 32 nurses.  However, the optimistic beginnings of this facility soon turned sour. In 1965, the Moroccan Ministry of Health took over operations, leading to a gradual decline attributed to mismanagement. In 1975, the sanatorium shut its doors for the last time.

Rumours surrounding the sanatorium have only deepened its aura of mystery. It is alleged that this once-thriving medical institution became a clandestine meeting place for conspirators plotting against King Hassan II, adding layers of intrigue to its already troubled history. The subsequent neglect left the building to the mercy of robbers and scavengers, who stripped it of furniture and equipment, transforming it from a place of healing to a shell of its former self.

As time marches on, the site has gained a notorious reputation for being haunted. Numerous accounts have reported unsettling occurrences: doors slamming without cause, ghostly apparitions, and stones thrown at those who dare to trespass. Tales also speak of misfortune befalling those who enter, with some visitors succumbing to mysterious fatal accidents shortly after their visit.

Despite various expressions of interest from potential investors over the years, no restoration efforts have materialized, leaving the sanatorium to crumble further into disrepair.