Matmata: the underground city of the Berbers in the Sahara desert

Probably the most original Tunisian city is located in the province of Gabes, not far from the Mediterranean coast. This is Matmata, where in the middle of a hot desert people have learned to build unusual residential buildings directly underground. Despite the fact that civilization is gradually penetrating this inaccessible region of the country, the majority of the population of Matmata prefer to live in traditional houses, as their ancestors did.

The main population of this small town is the Berbers. The tradition of building underground houses in this part of Tunisia has more than one thousand years. According to local legends, people were forced to settle underground in order to protect themselves from foreign invaders. Over time, the harsh dugouts transformed into comfortable houses that are the best suited for this area.

The area where the city of Berbers is located, although it is located 30 kilometers from the Mediterranean coast, is a real desert. The scorching sun leaves no chance of vegetation, and people constantly have to flee from the unbearable heat. And in houses underground, this problem can be solved, so the inhabitants of Matmata, of whom about 1800 people, prefer such unusual dwellings.

Underground houses are created on hillsides or arranged right on level ground. To do this, first dig a large round or rectangular pit, the diameter of which can reach 10-13 meters. This site subsequently serves as a kind of patio. Sunlight falls here and you can optionally go outside and sit at the entrance, admiring the neat flower garden of cacti. From this courtyard subsequently dug up living rooms and utility rooms. According to local residents, it is very convenient. If the family has grown, you can always dig a new room in the neighborhood or even a whole "apartment". Therefore, the housing problem in Matmata is solved quite simply.

There are ordinary houses in the city, but the majority of the population of Matmata still lives underground, because it is convenient, rather cheap, and if desired, can bring a good income. Tourists willingly visit these places, get acquainted with the locals and buy souvenirs. The local hotel is also made in a traditional style and is underground. Well, after the city became the location of the film "Star Wars", the flow of tourists to these parts is growing every year.