Discover the Charm of Tunis Through Its Iconic Film Settings

Tunis, the captivating capital of Tunisia, has long been a preferred backdrop for filmmakers, with its enchanting medinas, ancient ruins, and mesmerizing coastal landscapes. This article is a comprehensive guide to the locations and places in Tunis where famous films, TV shows, and books are set. Embark on a cinematic journey, discover travel tips and trivia for your trip to Tunis, and uncover the city’s hidden gems.

7 Famous Films Shot in Tunis

Tunis’s unique blend of ancient history and modern vibrancy has been captured in various films. Here are seven renowned films that were shot in this fascinating city:

1. “Star Wars” (1977) – The iconic desert scenes from this epic space opera were filmed in the mesmerizing landscapes around Matmata, a small town near Tunis.
2. “Raiders of the Lost Ark” (1981) – Steven Spielberg’s timeless adventure film used the picturesque backdrop of the ancient city of Kairouan, located near Tunis, to represent Cairo in the 1930s.
3. “The English Patient” (1996) – The Sahara Desert near Tunis provided the stunning backdrop for this romantic war drama.
4. “Gladiator” (2000) – Ridley Scott’s epic historical drama used the ancient amphitheater of El Jem, near Tunis, as the Colosseum in Rome.
5. “The Last Days of Pompeii” (2005) – The ruins of Carthage in Tunis were used to recreate the ancient city of Pompeii in this miniseries.
6. “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time” (2010) – This fantasy-adventure film captured the exotic charm of Tunis, particularly the historic city of Sousse.
7. “Black Gold” (2011) – This epic drama about the early years of the oil industry filmed key scenes in the Sahara Desert near Tunis.

These films not only showcase the diverse beauty of Tunis but also underscore the city’s contribution to the world of cinema.

5 TV Shows Set in Tunis

Tunis’s allure extends beyond the big screen to the realm of television. Here are five series that encapsulate the essence of this enchanting city:

1. “The English” (2012-2013) – This British crime drama series used various locations in Tunis to portray the Middle East.
2. “Homeland” (2011-2020) – The acclaimed American spy thriller series filmed several episodes in Tunis, using the city as a stand-in for various Middle Eastern locations.
3. “Legends” (2014-2015) – This American crime drama series used the cityscape of Tunis to portray various international locations.
4. “Prison Break” (2005-2017) – The fourth season of this popular American television series was partially filmed in Tunis.
5. “The Crown” (2016-present) – The Netflix series used Tunis to depict Ghana in a season two episode.

Through these series, viewers can explore different facets of Tunisian culture, from its historic past to its vibrant modernity.

Famous Books Set in Tunis

Tunis’s rich history and captivating landscapes have inspired numerous authors. Here are three classic and three contemporary books set in Tunis that offer literary journeys through the city’s multifaceted persona:

Classic:

1. “Salammbo” by Gustave Flaubert – This historical novel is set in Carthage, near Tunis, during the Mercenary War.
2. “The French Lieutenant’s Woman” by John Fowles – Parts of this postmodern historical fiction novel are set in Tunis.
3. “The Sheltering Sky” by Paul Bowles – This existential novel features scenes set in Tunis.

Contemporary:

1. “The Pillar of Salt” by Albert Memmi – This semi-autobiographical novel provides a vivid depiction of life in Tunis during the mid-20th century.
2. “The Scents of Marie-Claire” by Habib Selmi – This novel explores the cultural clash between East and West through the story of a Tunisian man living in Paris.
3. “The Silence of the Sea” by Leila Marrakchi – This novel tells the story of a Tunisian family through the eyes of a young girl.

Exploring Tunis’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

Tunis, with its historic landmarks and stunning landscapes, is a favored canvas for filmmakers. If you’re eager to walk in the footsteps of movie stars and immerse yourself in the city’s cinematic history, here are some essential filming locations in Tunis you must visit:

1. The Medina of Tunis – This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its maze-like streets and bustling souks, has been used in numerous films and TV shows.
2. The Ancient City of Carthage – The ruins of this historic city have served as a backdrop for films like “The Last Days of Pompeii.”
3. El Jem – This ancient amphitheater was used as the Colosseum in “Gladiator.”
4. Sidi Bou Said – This picturesque town, with its blue and white buildings, is a popular filming location.
5. Sahara Desert – The breathtaking landscapes of the Sahara have been featured in numerous films, including “Star Wars” and “The English Patient.”

Where to Sleep in Tunis

Tunis offers a diverse array of accommodations, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxury stays.

Budget:

1. Hotel Carlton – Located in the heart of Tunis, this hotel offers affordable rooms with modern amenities.
2. Hotel Tiba – This budget-friendly hotel is known for its excellent location and friendly service.
3. Hotel La Maison Blanche – This boutique hotel offers affordable luxury in the heart of Tunis.

Luxury:

1. The Residence Tunis – This five-star hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and traditional Tunisian charm.
2. Movenpick Hotel Gammarth Tunis – This luxury hotel, located on the coast, offers stunning sea views.
3. Four Seasons Hotel Tunis – This luxury hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and traditional Tunisian charm.

Where to Eat in Tunis

Tunis offers a wide range of dining options, from budget-friendly eateries to luxury dining experiences.

Budget:

1. El Ali – Located in the Medina, this restaurant offers traditional Tunisian cuisine at reasonable prices.
2. Chez Slah – This popular restaurant is known for its delicious seafood dishes.
3. Fondouk El Attarine – This restaurant, located in a restored caravanserai, offers a variety of Tunisian dishes.

Luxury:

1. Le Carpe Diem – This upscale restaurant offers a mix of French and Tunisian cuisine.
2. The Cliff – With stunning views of the Mediterranean, this restaurant offers a luxury dining experience.
3. Restaurant Le Baroque – This elegant restaurant offers a variety of international dishes.

Detailed Itinerary of Tunis

Embark on a five-day journey through Tunis, discovering famous filming locations and immersing yourself in the city’s rich culture and history:

Day 1: Tunis – Medina and Carthage

Start your tour in the Medina of Tunis, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular filming location. Visit the Zitouna Mosque and the bustling souks. In the afternoon, head to the ancient city of Carthage, featured in films like “The Last Days of Pompeii.”

Day 2: El Jem and Sousse

Travel to El Jem, an ancient amphitheater that served as the Colosseum in “Gladiator.” Then head to Sousse, a historic city that was used as a filming location in “Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time.”

Day 3: Matmata and the Sahara Desert

Travel to Matmata, known for its distinctive underground dwellings and as a filming location for “Star Wars.” Then explore the stunning landscapes of the Sahara Desert, featured in films like “The English Patient.”

Day 4: Sidi Bou Said and La Marsa

Visit Sidi Bou Said, a picturesque town with blue and white buildings that’s a popular filming location. Then head to La Marsa, a seaside town known for its beautiful beaches.

Day 5: Bardo Museum and Modern Tunis

Visit the Bardo Museum, home to one of the world’s most important collections of Roman mosaics. Then explore modern Tunis, including the Ville Nouvelle with its French colonial architecture.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Tunis is not just about picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks. The city also has its share of legends and curiosities. One of the most famous legends is that of the Barbary lion, a subspecies that once roamed the forests of Tunisia. Another intriguing curiosity is the existence of the fennec fox, a small nocturnal fox known for its unusually large ears, which is native to the Sahara Desert.

Hidden Gems in Tunis

While Tunis’s famous landmarks are popular among visitors, the city also boasts numerous hidden gems:

1. Dar Ben Abdallah – This 18th-century palace, now a museum, offers a glimpse into traditional Tunisian life.
2. Dar Lasram – This 18th-century mansion houses an impressive collection of Arabic manuscripts.
3. The National Museum of Islamic Art – This museum, located in the Medina, houses a collection of Islamic art and artifacts.

What to Pack for a Trip to Tunis

Packing for a trip to Tunis requires careful planning. Here are some essentials:

1. Comfortable footwear – You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are crucial.
2. Versatile clothing – Pack layers to adjust to the changing weather. Include a mix of casual and smart outfits.
3. Sun protection – A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, as Tunis can get very sunny.
4. Camera – To capture your own cinematic memories of this fascinating city.
5. Travel guide and map – For finding filming locations and hidden gems.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Tunis is relatively easy, thanks to the city’s efficient transportation network. Here are some tips:

1. Metro – Tunis has a metro system that covers most of the city.
2. Taxis – Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced. Just make sure the meter is running.
3. Bikes – Tunis is a bike-friendly city, with dedicated bike lanes and bike rental services.
4. Car – Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to explore outside of Tunis.

Travel Documents Needed

When planning your trip to Tunis, it’s important to have the right travel documents:

1. Passport – Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned date of departure.
2. Visa – Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Tunisia. Check the Tunisian Embassy or Consulate website in your country for requirements.
3. Travel Insurance – It’s recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and trip cancellation.
4. International Driving Permit – If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is required along with your valid driver’s license.

Conclusion: Your Ultimate Guide to Tunis’s Cinematic Landscape

From the enchanting Medina to the mesmerizing Sahara Desert, Tunis offers a cinematic journey like no other. Whether you’re a film buff, a TV series enthusiast, a book lover, or simply a traveler in search of unique experiences, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of Tunis’s cinematic landscape. So embark on a journey through Tunis’s famous films, TV shows, books, and discover the hidden gems that make this city a filmmaker’s dream. Bon voyage!