Sfax history

At the Roots of the City: Foundation and First Steps

The history of the city of Sfax dates back to the 9th century, representing a vivid example of the continuity of civilizations. It did not arise from nothing, but literally grew from the ruins of antiquity to become one of the most important centers in North Africa.

Foundation on the Ruins of an Empire

The year 849 AD is considered the official date of the city's birth. By order of the rulers of the Aghlabid dynasty, who controlled the territory of modern Tunisia, the construction of powerful fortress walls began. The uniqueness of the moment lay in the fact that stones and columns from the ancient Roman city of Taparura and the neighboring settlement of Thaenae served as building materials. Thus, the antique heritage became the foundation for the new Arab Medina.

Key Factors of Formation

The transformation of a small coastal fortress into a thriving city was driven by a combination of several important circumstances:

• Geographic Shield: The city was conceived as a naval outpost to protect the sacred capital of the region — Kairouan, located inland.
• Trade Hub: The convenient bay quickly turned the military fortification into a bustling trading port, connecting the caravan routes of the Sahara with the Mediterranean.
• Agricultural Potential: The arid yet fertile lands around were ideally suited for growing olive trees, which laid the foundation for the region's economic power for centuries to come.

Early Culture and Economy

Already in the first centuries of its existence, the city acquired its unique character. The inhabitants, known for their independent nature and diligence, developed not only maritime trade but also crafts. The production of high-quality olive oil and textiles brought special fame to the region. The Great Mosque became the spiritual and social core, around which life bustled, forming a special urban community capable of self-organization and defending its interests.

Key Milestones in the History of Sfax

The history of Sfax is a rich chronicle in which the fates of many civilizations are intertwined. Each period has left its unique imprint on the architecture, culture, and character of this important port city, transforming it from an ancient settlement into one of the main economic centers of modern Tunisia.

• 849 — On the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Taparura, modern Sfax was founded by decree of the Aghlabid dynasty. This year marks the beginning of the construction of the Medina and the Great Mosque, which remain the heart of the city today.
• End of the 10th Century — Thanks to its strategic position and economic growth, Sfax gains significant autonomy and temporarily becomes an independent city-state.
• 1148 — The city falls under the rule of the Kingdom of Sicily led by Roger II, opening a Norman chapter in its history.
• 1156 — As a result of a successful uprising, local residents liberate Sfax from Norman rule.
• 16th Century — Sfax briefly comes under Spanish control, and then, becoming part of the Ottoman Empire, becomes one of the key bases for Barbary pirates in the Mediterranean.
• 1881 — After fierce resistance and bombardment, the city is occupied by French troops, beginning the era of the French protectorate, which brought new European architecture and a redevelopment of part of the city.
• 1942–1943 — During World War II, Sfax was used as a major base by Axis forces and was subsequently liberated by British troops during the Tunisian Campaign.
• 1956 — Tunisia declares independence from France, and Sfax enters a new era of development as part of a sovereign state.
• 1970 — The discovery of large oil fields near the city gives a powerful boost to its economy and strengthens its status as the country's industrial center.

The development of Sfax is marked by several key stages that transformed it from a medieval fortress into the economic capital of modern Tunisia.

• Medieval Conquests and Piracy Center: After a period of independence, the city was captured in the 12th century by King Roger II of Sicily, and in the 16th century, it briefly passed under Spanish control. In subsequent centuries, Sfax became one of the most important bases for Barbary pirates in the Mediterranean, which defined its martial and independent character.

• Beginning of the French Protectorate (1881): With the establishment of French rule, a large-scale urban transformation began. Next to the old Medina, a new European quarter — "Ville Nouvelle" — was erected with wide avenues and colonial architecture, forever changing the face of the city.

• Industrial Growth of the Late 19th – Early 20th Centuries: The French administration modernized the port and built railways. This, coupled with the discovery of phosphate deposits in the Gafsa region, turned Sfax into the main center for their processing and export. Simultaneously, the city strengthened its status as the "olive oil capital" of Tunisia.

• World War II Period: Due to its strategic port, the city was used as a major military base by the Axis powers. This made Sfax a target for Allied aviation, leading to significant destruction.

• Post-War Reconstruction and Independence: After Tunisia gained independence in 1956, Sfax quickly recovered and established itself as the second-largest city and the primary economic hub of the country. It became a center for food, light, and chemical industries.

• Discovery of Oil Fields (1970s): The discovery of oil reserves near the city gave a new powerful impulse to its economic development, reinforcing its status as an industrial and logistics center.

• Modern Business and Educational Hub: Today, Sfax is not only the "economic capital" of the country but also an important educational center, home to a major university and numerous educational institutions training personnel for the entire country.

The architecture of Sfax is the visible history of the city, frozen in stone. Its main feature is the striking contrast between two completely different worlds: the traditional Arab Medina, surrounded by ancient walls, and the "New City" (Ville Nouvelle), built in the European style during the French protectorate era. This dualism defines the unique urban landscape of the city.

Arab-Muslim Era: The Heart of the Medina (from the 9th Century)

The historical core of Sfax is the Medina, founded in 849 by the Aghlabid dynasty on the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Taparura. Its architecture and layout are a classic example of traditional Arab-Islamic urban planning.

• Style and Layout: The Medina is characterized by an organic labyrinth of narrow and winding streets, creating shade and providing coolness. All life was concentrated within powerful fortress walls, which still completely surround the old city today.
• Landmarks:
  • The Great Mosque: Founded simultaneously with the city, it is its spiritual and architectural center. Its massive walls and minaret serve as an important landmark.
  • Fortress Walls and Kasbah: Monumental defensive structures with gates, such as Bab Diwan, define the boundaries and appearance of the old city. The Kasbah (citadel) in the southwestern part performed military and administrative functions.

French Protectorate Era (1881–1956)

With the arrival of the French, the "New City" (Ville Nouvelle) was built outside the Medina, becoming the new administrative and business center. This district demonstrates a completely different approach to urban planning.

• Style and Layout: Unlike the chaotic Medina, the new district features a strict rectangular grid of streets, wide avenues, and public squares modeled after European examples. The architecture of the buildings is dominated by the French colonial style, often with elements of the Neo-Moorish style (Moorish Revival) and Art Deco.
• Landmarks:
  • Municipality Building (Hôtel de Ville): A vivid example of the so-called "Arab-Andalusian" style, designed by French architect Raphaël Guy. The building combines European architectural principles with Oriental decorative motifs.
  • Habib Bourguiba Avenue: The central artery of the new city, lined with elegant colonial-era buildings.

Modern Period (from 1956)

After gaining independence, Sfax continued to develop actively as the main economic center of southern Tunisia. Urban development expanded far beyond the historical center and the Ville Nouvelle.

• Styles and Urban Planning: Functionalism and modernism prevail in architecture, aimed at quickly solving housing and infrastructure challenges. In recent decades, special attention has been paid to urban renewal projects and addressing environmental issues arising from industrialization.
• Key Projects:
  • "Taparura" Project: A large-scale initiative for the reclamation and development of the northern coastal zone. The project envisages the creation of modern residential quarters, parks, an embankment, and business centers, exemplifying a modern approach to sustainable urban planning.

Prominent Figures Associated with Sfax

The city of Sfax has gifted Tunisia and the world with many talented figures in various fields — from politics and science to art and sports. These people left a significant mark on history, shaping the cultural and social landscape of their era.

• Ali al-Nouri (11th century) — A Sufi scholar and ascetic. He is considered one of the most revered patron saints of the city. His teachings and righteous lifestyle had a tremendous influence on the spiritual life of medieval Sfax, and his mausoleum remains a place of pilgrimage.
• Mohamed Jamoussi (1910–1982) — Singer, composer, and actor. One of the iconic figures of 20th-century Tunisian music, whose work combined traditional motifs with modern trends. His songs have become part of the national cultural heritage.
• Hedi Chaker (1908–1953) — Politician and one of the leaders of the Tunisian independence movement. He was a prominent figure in the "Neo-Destour" party. His active struggle for the country's sovereignty made him a national hero.
• Abdelwahab Bouhdiba (1932–2020) — A distinguished sociologist, philosopher, and Islamic scholar. His scholarly works dedicated to issues of sexuality in Islam, identity, and dialogue between cultures have received international recognition and have been translated into many languages.
• Max Azria (1949–2019) — World-famous fashion designer of Tunisian-Jewish origin. Founder of the fashion house BCBG Max Azria, he achieved immense success in the USA and made a significant contribution to the global fashion industry.
• Nouri Bouzid (born 1945) — Film director and screenwriter. His films, such as "Man of Ashes," have won numerous awards at international film festivals. Bouzid's work is known for its bold exploration of social and political themes in modern Tunisian society.
• Saber Rebai (born 1967) — Popular singer and composer, known throughout the Arab world. His song "Sidi Mansour" brought him widespread fame far beyond Tunisia.