DAR SEBASTIAN - INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL CENTER

We've fallen in love with the Hammamet International Cultural Center, known simply as "Dar Sebastian" by Tunisians, and in particular with the sumptuous gardens and natural spaces that surround it... The center comprises four areas spread over 14 hectares of land: Dar Sebastian, the two botanical gardens and the open-air theater.

Dar Sebastian. This architectural jewel, which today houses the Hammamet International Cultural Center, had a curious destiny: Georges Sebastian's palace, built in 1927, was requisitioned in 1943 by Rommel, who set up his headquarters there. After the war, the wealthy Romanian, who didn't want to return to his liberated home, sold it to the Tunisian state. In 1962, the latter turned it into a cultural center, whose open-air theater hosts the international festival every summer. A masterpiece of traditional Tunisian architecture, the house is world-renowned as one of the most beautiful villas. In the past, it has played host to influential ^{twentieth-century} artists and intellectuals such as Paul Klee, André Gide, Giacometti, Macke and others. Churchill wrote part of his memoirs here. Inside, you'll find beautiful 1930s furniture and a surprising bathroom. Enjoy a drink by the white marble pool. At the time of our visit, when there was no cultural activity, the palace was unfortunately a little dirty and dusty. The reception, however, was very friendly!

Botanical gardens. The gardens and green spaces of this cultural center are a real haven of peace and greenery, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Hammamet. The views of the sea behind the Dar Sebastian palace are sublime: take a stroll and get lost among the cacti and immense palm trees... Created in 1932 by Sebastian, the garden boasts over thirty plant species, including a variety of tropical plants that acclimatize quite well to the Mediterranean coast. A delight for the eye and the nose... A small but well-organized eco-museum has recently been opened.

Theater. Built in the botanical gardens in 1964 by French architect Paul Chémetov, it has hosted the Hammamet International Festival since 1964. It has also been the venue for many illustrious choreographers, including Maurice Béjart and the companies of Alvin Ailey and Alwin Nikolais.