Built in the 17th century, Sidi Youssef Dey Mosque was the first Ottoman-style mosque in Tunis, designed by Andalusian architect Ibn Ghalib. Its eclectic mix of influences reflects the era’s cultural exchanges. Flanked by Turkish souqs — El Trouk (once tailors, now clothing and embroidery), El Berka (formerly a slave market, later jewellery traders), and El Bechamkia (slippers and shoes) — the mosque served the city’s Ottoman-era merchants. The minaret, topped with a distinctive green-tiled pyramidal crown, became a model for later Ottoman designs in Tunis. Its octagonal shape, novel at the time, subtly asserted Ottoman authority. Inside, the mosque houses the tombs of Youssef Dey, commander of the janissaries, and his family. Sidi Youssef remains an active mosque, so plan visits outside prayer times, when non-Muslim visitors may enter. Its striking architecture, both inside and out, anchors a neighbourhood rich with history.

La Marsa offers a refined coastal escape just north of Carthage, where the creatives of Tunis mingles with sunseekers along a lively corniche. The main beach draws families for summer swims, while off-season sees fishermen casting lines from the sand. What distinguishes this stretch is its evolving cultural scene: skateboarders carve concrete slopes by day as musicians strum under the palms, creating an organic performance space above the shore. The neighborhood’s architectural legacy reveals its bourgeois roots. Whitewashed villas with intricate mashrabiya screens stand guard along avenues lined with jacaranda trees. Recent years have brought a creative influx, with designers and musicians transforming old seaside residences into studios. While the western edges fade into industrial zones, the heart of La Marsa retains its aspirational charm, particularly around Avenue Habib Bourguiba where pavement cafés serve mint tea with Mediterranean views.

Another beautiful castle in Kyoto and one of the filming locations for the movie "Inception". The construction of this complex was initiated and completed at the beginning of the 17th century by Tokugawa Ieyasu to serve as his residence, when he would spent time in the city of Kyoto. Consequently, the castle is equipped with many defensive structures, despite the fact that the leader spent most of his time in Tokyo. Walk through the magnificent entrance to the complex and explore the estate and its history.