Borj le Bœuf

Borj le Bœuf is a French military fort in southern Tunisia's desert landscape, located near the borders with Algeria and Libya. The structure sits approximately 40 kilometers southwest of Remada within the Grand Erg Oriental desert.

The fort was built in 1916 as part of French control over the Sahara alongside the Bir Kecira post. During colonial rule, it served as a prison for opponents of French authority.

The fort takes its name from a French officer, though it was renamed after Tunisia became independent to reflect local identity.

The fort lies off main roads in a remote desert region and requires thorough planning before visiting. Travelers should work with local guides or experienced organizations to secure the route and manage conditions effectively.

The fort held Habib Bourguiba, who would become Tunisia's first independent president, as a prisoner between 1934 and 1936. This location connects directly to a key figure in Tunisia's path toward freedom.