Tunisia Ksar Chenini, Tunisia

Ksar Chenini, located in Chenini, Tunisia, is a historic ksar (fortified village) perched on a peak, with origins dating back to the 12th century. The site, undergoing restoration efforts, has been proposed for UNESCO World Heritage status. Ksar Chenini boasts an undetermined number of ghorfas (storage chambers) and is associated with the fictional Tatooine's moons in the Star Wars canon. The location, popular for tourism, features ancient structures and a mosque. Archaeologist David West Reynolds documented the site during the Episode I recce to Tunisia in 1995, with its unique features contributing to potential Star Wars set concepts.

Importance for Star Wars:
Ksar Chenini holds significance for Star Wars as it served as a filming location for Episode I in 1995. The site, identified by archaeologist David West Reynolds, provided inspiration for the fictional Tatooine. The sketches and photographs taken during the recce contributed to the creation of iconic Star Wars locations, including Mos Espa's marketplace, podrace circuit, and slave quarters. The association of Chenini with Tatooine's moons in the Star Wars canon further solidifies its importance in the franchise's lore. The unique architecture, historical charm, and remote setting of Ksar Chenini have left an indelible mark on the Star Wars universe, making it a tangible link between the real world and the galaxy far, far away.

Bring a wide angle lense as well. In winter the best time is at around 10am, I would say.

Getting here is a nobrainer. I marked the parking area, but I assume, that there will be offered a lot of bus tours to this location. Just ask in bigger cities nearby. Depending on the season, you'll see more or less tourists here. In winter it's very calm here and there are just a few tourists, but in high season expect this place to be completely overfilled.