Where in the World?

Question: Where in the world is this whitewashed village, built around the tomb of a Muslim saint and a source of inspiration for some of the greatest creative minds in history?

Answer: Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia

This idyllic, whitewashed seaside town may as well have emerged from the pages of an Arabian Nights tale. Propped upon a steep cliff lining the azure shores of the Mediterranean Sea, Sidi Bou Said is located just 12 miles northeast of Tunisia's capital, Tunis. This quiet village is known not only for its breathtaking vistas, but also its significance in religion, history, and art.

That said, this town’s most iconic feature is undoubtedly its stunning blue and white architecture. The entire town is an exquisite canvas of cobalt blue and pristine white, a color palette that creates a harmonious contrast with the Mediterranean’s turquoise waves. While Sidi Bou Said has been settled since as far back as the Roman times, it wasn’t until the 17th century when the Tunisian bourgeois, attracted by the clean sea air, built most of the gorgeous traditional Arab-Andalusian houses you can still see (and stay in) today.

Now, whitewashed buildings adorned with ornate wrought-iron grilles, intricate wooden latticework, and bright blue doors and shutters combine to create a mesmerizing tableau. Bougainvillea and jasmine vines spill over walls, adding vibrant splashes of color to the scene. As the sun sets, the town's lantern-lit streets exude an almost otherworldly charm, making it an ideal destination for romantic getaways and leisurely strolls.

At the heart of Sidi Bou Said is its wondrous medina, a maze of narrow, winding streets that beckon visitors to explore. The medina is both a time capsule and an example of daily life in the village, preserving its heritage while offering a glimpse into the lifestyles of its residents. Here, you can find quaint cafes, art galleries, and boutique shops tucked away in centuries-old buildings.

Sidi Bou Said is not just a feast for the eyes but also a cultural hotspot: The town has a rich history of music, art, literature, and religious significance. Not only have its winding streets and stunning architecture provided inspiration for countless painters and writers (see the fun facts below), but the town itself was built around the tomb of a Muslim saint (or "wali"): Abu Said Ibn Khalef Ibn Yahia El-Beji.

Abu Said was a Tunisian Sufi scholar (Sufism is a mystic body of religious practice found within Islam). He spent much of his life studying and teaching at the Zitouna Mosque in Tunis. After journeying through the Middle East on a pilgrimage to Mecca, he came home and sought the peace and quiet of a small village on the outskirts of Tunis named Jebel El-Manar. Abu Said spent the rest of his life meditating and praying in Jebel El-Manar, until his death in 1231 AD. His tomb became a pilgrimage site for devout Muslims, and over time, a town grew up around it. Eventually, it was named in his honor—Sidi Bou Said.

4 Fun Facts About Sidi Bou Said:

• It wasn't until the early 1920s that the town adopted its striking blue and white color scheme: It was inspired by the palace of Baron Rodolphe d'Erlanger, a famous French painter, and musicologist known for his work in promoting Arab music, who lived in Sid Bou Said from 1909 until his death in 1932. Since then, the town has become synonymous with art and creativity, having provided a sanctuary for many famous painters, writers, and journalists. Paul Klee was inspired by the city's beauty and author (and Nobel laureate) André Gide had a house here.


• It’s not just wealthy Tunisians and eager travelers who have found inspiration in this town—so have many famous creative minds: Inspired by its stunning design and enchanting setting, Sidi Bou Said attracted artists and radical thinkers from across North Africa and Europe—including Simone de Beauvoir, Matisse, Michel de Foucault, and more. For the renowned French writer, André Gide, the Sidi Bou Said Lighthouse served as more than just a navigational aid; he once resided here, and his novel "The Immoralist" was partly inspired by the allure of Sidi Bou Said.


• New buildings in Sidi Bou Said must abide by their blue and white architectural style: While Sidi Bou Said has retained its timeless charm, it has also adapted to the demands of modern tourism. The Tunisian government and local authorities have taken measures to protect the town's heritage, ensuring that new construction adheres to the blue and white architectural style that defines Sidi Bou Said.


• Sidi Bou Said annually hosts several festivals: Every year, Sidi Bou Said hosts the International Festival of Sidi Bou Said in early June, an event that celebrates various forms of art, including music, theater, and visual arts. This festival attracts both local and international artists and has become a platform for cultural exchange and creativity. The town also hosts traditional festivals, such as Kharjathe which honors the town's patron saint, Abu Said. This religious festival happens in either July or August and features processions, music, and dancing, giving visitors a chance to experience the town's vibrant cultural heritage.

Explore the whitewashed streets of Sidi Bou Said during our Tunisia: From the Mediterranean to the Sahara adventure.