Castilia Village to be Integrated into Tourist Circuits
Castilia, a term that refers to a genus of butterflies in scientific classifications, has a different meaning in Tozeur. It is a craft village that has been recently integrated into tourist circuits. This decision, announced by Leila Msellati, Director General of the Tunisian National Office of Handicrafts (ONAT), aims to give visibility to this site, which has been struggling to attract visitors for several years.
Recent Discoveries and Cooperation
The site was recently visited in March as part of a cooperation project between the National Heritage Institute (INP) and the University of Rome "Tor Vergata". According to initial data, the site bears witness to an ancient occupation dating back to the Late Antiquity period. Research has highlighted traces of artisanal activity, particularly related to plaster work. Archaeologists believe that the site could correspond to an ancient small settlement or even a buried city.
Relaunch Program
The announcement was made on the sidelines of a working visit by the Minister of Tourism and Handicrafts, Sofiane Tekaya, and is accompanied by a relaunch program aimed at revitalizing the village's activities throughout the year. The initiative will be carried out in coordination with regional authorities. According to the head of ONAT, the low attendance at the village is due to its distance from the main craft markets in the city and the usual tourist routes.
Integration into Regional Tourist Offer
The integration of the village into the regional tourist offer is expected to increase its visibility and promote the marketing of handicraft products. The program also plans to strengthen the presence of young artisans, in a context marked by the increasing arrival of higher education graduates in the sector. These new profiles are expected to contribute to the modernization of handicrafts while valorizing local heritage.
Partnerships and Events
Partnerships with several public institutions, including the Ministries of Family and Cultural Affairs and the Tunisian Agency for Vocational Training, are also planned. These partnerships are expected to lead to the organization of events, exhibitions, and fairs aimed at attracting more visitors. Beyond the village of Castilia, this initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance handicrafts in Tozeur. The region has a rich artisanal heritage and diverse know-how that reflects its history and cultural identity. For sector officials, the development of these activities represents both a means of preserving heritage and an opportunity to strengthen the tourist attractiveness of southern Tunisia.
