The 7 Most Interesting Facts about Medenine Governorate

Medenine Governorate is one of the 24 governorates of Tunisia, located in the south-east of the country. It covers an area of 8,657 km² and has a population of approximately 500,000. Here are 7 interesting facts about this fascinating region:

1. Home to the famous Matmata underground dwellings

Matmata, a small town in Medenine Governorate, is famous for its underground dwellings. These unique homes were carved out of the soft volcanic rock, and were made even more famous by being used as a filming location for Star Wars.

2. Traditional Berber architecture

Medenine Governorate is home to many traditional Berber settlements. These settlements are built using traditional techniques and are designed to blend in with the natural surroundings.

3. The Door of the Sahara

Medenine Governorate is also known as the Door of the Sahara, as it is the gateway to the vast expanse of desert that covers much of Tunisia’s south.

4. Rich history

The region has a rich history, with archaeological sites dating back to the Phoenician and Roman periods. The town of Medenine is home to the Ksours, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5. A melting pot of cultures

Medenine Governorate has been influenced by various cultures throughout history, including Berber, Arab, and French. This has led to a unique mixture of traditions, cuisine, and architecture.

6. Stunning natural landscapes

The region boasts stunning natural landscapes, including the Chott El Jerid salt flats and the Tataouine desert. Visitors can also explore the scenic Djerba Island, located off the coast of Medenine Governorate.

7. Handcrafted souvenirs

Medenine Governorate is famous for its handcrafted souvenirs, including rugs, pottery, and leather goods. Visitors can purchase these items from local markets and souks.

In conclusion, Medenine Governorate is a truly unique and fascinating destination worth exploring. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural mix, there’s always something new to discover.

The Insider’s Guide to Medenine Governorate

Medenine Governorate is a region in southeastern Tunisia, known for its rich Berber culture, stunning architecture and landscape, and fascinating historical landmarks. Here are the 7 most interesting facts that make Medenine Governorate a must-visit destination.

Local Attractions

Medenine Governorate has plenty of local attractions that will cater to tourists of all tastes and ages. One of the most popular attractions of the region is the Ksour of Medenine, which are a group of ancient underground granaries or storage rooms built in the 11th century by the Berber people. Guermessa, a beautiful mountain village, is another must-visit attraction where visitors can explore stunning traditional Berber architecture, climb the rocky cliffs, and enjoy breathtaking views of olive and palm groves. For movie lovers, there is the famous Star Wars movie set, located near the village of Ong Jemal, which is an original shooting location for the movies.

Dining Spots

Tunisian cuisine is a fusion of the Arab, Berber, and Mediterranean influences. Every corner of Medenine Governorate offers a unique dining experience that allows visitors to indulge in local specialities. Tasting some of the local dishes such as couscous, fricassee, brik, and ftair is a must-do activity. Some of the best dining spots in the region include Restaurant Chalet Guermessa, which is known for serving traditional Tunisian dishes, and La Grillarderie, which offers its customers a variety of delicious grilled meats.

Cultural Experiences

Medenine Governorate has a strong cultural heritage that dates back centuries. Visitors can get a glimpse of local culture and tradition by visiting local museums such as the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions, which displays artefacts, costumes, and musical instruments of the Berber people. Taking part in traditional pottery and weaving workshops and eggshell carving classes are also great ways of immersing oneself in the Berber culture.

Local History

Medenine Governorate has a rich historical background that is worth exploring. One of the most prominent historical landmarks in the region is the Roman Coliseum of El Jem, which was the third-largest amphitheatre in the Roman Empire. The Douz Museum is another must-visit destination for history buffs as it exhibits artefacts that are evidence of the historical Amazigh presence in the region.

Off-the-beaten-path

For those who want to experience the region’s natural beauty and take the road less travelled, the Medenine Governorate region is home to a plethora of off-the-beaten-path locations. The Chott El Djerid, one of the largest salt lakes in the world, is a stunning natural wonder that is worth exploring. Visitors can also take part in camel trekking and hiking along the Ksour route for an unforgettable experience.

Conclusion

In summary, Medenine Governorate offers an abundance of attractions, cultural experiences, dining spots, and off-the-beaten-path locations for visitors to explore. A trip to Medenine Governorate is an exciting journey into the heart of Tunisia’s Berber culture, historic landmarks, natural wonders, and delicious cuisine.