DAR SEBASTIEN - INTERNATIONAL CULTURAL CENTER
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We love the Hammamet International Cultural Center, known simply as "Dar Sebastian" by Tunisians, and especially for the sumptuous gardens and natural spaces that surround it. The center is made up of four spaces 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, has 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 rich Romanian, who did not 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 known worldwide as one of the most beautiful villas. In the past, it has hosted influential creators and intellectuals of the twentieth century such as Paul Klee, André Gide, Giacometti, Macke and others. Churchill wrote part of his memoirs here. Inside the house you will see beautiful furniture from the 1930s and a surprising bathroom. Feel free to have a drink by the white marble pool. At the time of our visit, when there was no cultural activity, the palace was unfortunately a bit dirty and dusty. The reception was very nice!
The botanical gardens. The gardens and green spaces of this cultural center are a real haven of peace and greenery, far from the rumor of Hammamet. The views of the sea behind the Dar Sebastian Palace are sublime: you have to go for a walk and get lost in the middle of the cactus and huge palm trees... Created in 1932 by Sebastian, the garden has more than thirty plant species, including a variety of tropical plants that acclimate rather well to the Mediterranean coast. A delight for the sight and smell... A small and well organized ecomuseum has recently been opened.
Theater. It was built in the botanical gardens in 1964 by the French architect Paul Chémetov, and has hosted the Hammamet International Festival since 1964. It is also a place where illustrious choreographers have performed, including our late Maurice Béjart, Alvin Ailey and Alwin Nikolais' companies.