Ksar Ouled Soltane

The ksar is built from stone, clay, and palm wood. It consists of two main courtyards, surrounded by several stories of ghorfas (storage cells) stacked on top of one another, sometimes reaching up to four levels, accessible via external staircases or stone walkways. Each ghorfa has a small arched door, and their irregular alignment gives the site a look that is both rustic and harmonious. The golden light of the desert sun enhances the ochre hue of the walls, creating an atmosphere that feels almost timeless. Visitors can climb to the upper levels, walk between the cells, and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding desert. Traditional objects can be discovered, along with a few mural paintings, and sometimes even encounters with local artisans.

Chenini Berber Village

Located about 18 km from Tataouine in southern Tunisia, Chenini is a troglodyte Berber village perched on the slopes of Djebel Demer, at an altitude of around 500 meters. This unique site, ranked among the most beautiful Berber villages in the country, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s traditional architecture and history. The village is dominated by a ksar (fortified granary), or kalâa, built in the 12th century. This ksar served both as a storage place for food reserves and as a refuge in times of attack. The traditional dwellings, called ghorfas, are carved into the rock, providing natural protection from the weather and invasions. The white minaret of the mosque, visible from the surrounding mountains, once served as a landmark for caravanners.