The fortified Ksar Ouled Debbab of Tataouine, Tunisia

  
   
 
 
 



These are the vaulted adobe homes of the 15th century Ksar Ouled Debbab, 15 minutes southwest of the city of Tataouine, Tunisia. The homes were built alongside similar, but usually taller, granaries called ghorfa. The whole complex was a fortified settlement with only one entrance.

   
       

The granaries kept food cool and dry behind the thick adobe walls and palm wood doors. The homes are similarly cool. These homes have been converted into a hotel, but others in the settlement are occupied by locals. Despite the restoration and renovation for a hotel, Ksar Ouled Debbab has retained its typical architectural style.