In the south of Tunisia in Matmata lies one of the most unique landscapes and house architectures. A visit to Matmata will feel like you are on the moon as you approach this historic town. Matmata is home to around 1500 people, however, you would hardly realize that because many of the homes are out of view. The locals have lived in underground troglodyte homes for centuries. There are just a few remaining families still living in underground troglodyte houses in Matmata, Tunisia today.
Troglodyte Homes in Matmata
Troglodyte homes are homes built into the ground as a way to escape the heat of the summer sun, creating their own natural air conditioning. As you walk around on the surface of the ground, you can peer down into these craters, which are the courtyards of these homes. Some of the courtyards have sheer drops of up to 30 feet deep. These courtyards have rooms cut into the ground where residents live.
Troglodyte Home in Matmata
Room in a Troglodyte Home in MatmataTroglodyte Star Wars Film Sets
The uniqueness of Matmata has made it a desired destination for filming parts of Star Wars as well.
Hotel Sidi Driss in Matmata – Lars Homestead Interior on Tatooine in Star WarsStay Overnight in a Troglodyte Hotel in Matmata
When visiting Matmata, you can choose to experience what life would be like underground by staying in one of the many Troglodyte hotels. An example of a troglodyte hotel is Hotel Marhala located in Matmata.
Troglodyte Hotel Room in Matmata
Troglodyte Hotel in MatmataVisit Troglodyte Homes in Matmata
When visiting Tunisia, make Matmata one of your destinations. You will not be disappointed. Many of our Tunisia tours visit Matmata in Southern Tunisia. All of our Tunisia tours can be customized to meet your travel preferences such as visiting troglodyte homes or staying overnight in a troglodyte hotel in Matmata.
Contact one of our Tunisia travel experts today if you have any questions or would like to begin planning your Tunisia tour adventure.
