Chenini Oasis, Gabès

Gabès is one of the very few oases in the world that touch the sea. At Chenini, 5 km inland, palm trees shade three layers of crops: pomegranates and fig trees, then vegetables and fodder below.

History

The oasis is old and fragile: urban growth and pollution have reduced the springs that once fed it.

Customs

Visit by horse carriage or by bike, and stay on the paths between gardens.

Food

Pomegranates in autumn, and henna from Gabès sold at the Jara market.

Best time

All year except midsummer. Pomegranates ripen in October.

A local association has worked since 1995 to save the oasis, with composting and organic farming.