سيدي بوسعيد is a captivating village perched on a steep hill overlooking the gulf of تونس, about 20 kilometers northeast of the capital of Tunisia. Its dramatic ascent offers visitors stunning panoramic views of the Mediterranean and the ancient city of Carthage below. The village’s distinctive blue and white architecture, introduced in the 1920s by the French painter and musicologist Rodolphe d’Erlanger, creates a striking visual harmony that has made Sidi Bou Saïd a beloved destination for travelers interested in history and culture.
The village’s history is deeply intertwined with the spiritual figure Abu Said al-Baji, after whom it is named. Originally called Jabal el-Menar, it became a center of religious significance following Abu Said’s settlement and burial there in the 13th century. Over time, Sidi Bou Saïd attracted wealthy residents from Tunis who built elegant homes, many reflecting Andalusian and Moorish architectural influences. The narrow, cobbled streets wind steeply up the hillside, inviting exploration on foot to discover artisan shops, galleries, and historic sites that echo the village’s rich past.
A highlight for visitors is the iconic Café des Nattes, nestled along the village’s steep lanes and offering great views from its small terrace. This traditional café offers a charming spot to experience local life while enjoying mint tea on woven straw mats, a practice that has persisted for generations. Sitting here, one can soak in the atmosphere of Sidi Bou Saïd’s timeless beauty, framed by the vibrant bougainvillea and the endless blue of the sea, making it a perfect place to reflect on the village’s unique blend of history, art, and culture.
The local specialty is Thé à la Menthe with almonds, but the Café des Nattes became well-known because of something different: August Macke painted it while being on a trip to Tunisia with his friends Paul Klee and Louis Moulliet in 1914. This trip had a significant impact on their style of painting and following generations. Mackes painting is named ‘Vue sur une mosquée‘ and shows the tower of the mosque of Sidi Bou Saïd behind the Café des Nattes. And this place hasn’t changed at all in the last hundret years: climbing up the stairs to the coffee bar and sitting on the terrace feels like stepping into the artwork of August Macke.
Café des Nattes
Sidi Bou Saïd
سيدي بوسعيد
Tunisia
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