Bab Saadoun, Historic gateway in Tunis, Tunisia
Bab Saadoun is a historic gateway in Tunis featuring three stone arches that serve as the primary entrance to the medina. The structure displays traditional Islamic architectural forms with openings sized to accommodate urban passage and commerce.
The original gate was built in 1350 with a single narrow arch and functioned as a city entrance for centuries. In 1881 it was expanded to handle increased traffic, creating the three arches visible today.
The gate takes its name from Saint Sidi Bou Saadoun and marks where the old medina meets modern Tunis. This naming reflects the religious significance the passage holds for local people.
The gateway is easily accessible on foot and sits at a central spot where shared taxis and buses depart. It is best visited during daytime when traffic and activity are highest.
The gate was originally so narrow that only one person could pass through at a time, making it a controlled entry point. This bottleneck became a symbol of security in old Tunis before 19th century expansion changed it.
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