Matmata, Underground Berber settlement in Gabès Governorate, Tunisia.
Matmata is a settlement in southern Tunisia where homes are built into deep circular pits excavated from sandstone bedrock. Caves serving as rooms, kitchens, and storage spaces are carved into the rock walls surrounding these sunken courtyards.
The underground building method developed over generations as protection from extreme desert heat and sandstorms. The settlement gained international attention only in recent decades through media coverage and tourism interest.
The people of Matmata speak a Berber dialect and maintain traditional crafts visible in everyday life. Their way of living in underground spaces shapes a distinct cultural identity that visitors can experience through interactions and observations in the village.
Exploring the caves requires time and patience as you move through different levels with steep and narrow passages. Wear sturdy footwear with good grip, and consider hiring a local guide to navigate the interior safely and learn about how families use each space.
One of the hotels in the village served as a filming location for major science fiction films, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. This film connection transformed the remote settlement into a destination for cinema fans and adventure seekers alike.
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