Colors of Hammamet - traditions, festivals, mentality and lifestyle

Cultural features and traditions of local people are largely dictated by religion; the majority of local customs may seem very unusual to foreigners. The French culture has made some interesting adjustments to it, so Hammamet surprises with an original combination of traditional Islamic canons and typical European customs.

Since the middle of the last century, local women have equal rights with men, which is a very unusual fact in Islamic cities. Ladies don’t cease to honor canons of Islam; however, that doesn’t stop them in getting education and working alongside with men.

Foreign guests can feel relatively calm in Hammamet; urban residents have long been accustomed to a large number of tourists and perceive features of other cultures with understanding. Anyway, you have to consider the outfit carefully, if you hope to visit religious sites and explore suburbs of Hammamet. It is inexcusable to go on a tour around religious sites in low-necked and provocative clothes. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

As for locals, they have their own unique clothing style. During a walk through residential areas of the city you can see women dressed in yashmak; many women tend to the obvious European style and prefer to wear trousers and classic blouses in the everyday life. One of the typical national garments are blouses and jackets with Kashmiri patterns, they look very fashionable and elegant. As for men, they do tend to free style of dress; however, it isn’t accepted to appear in public in shorts and T-shirts.

Despite the obvious influence of European culture, ancient beliefs form an integral part of the national way of life. This part of the local culture is manifested in many different areas of life. For example, locals use the hand of Fatima as a talisman. This mascot can be seen in virtually every home and car. Locals use henna to protect themselves from evil. Palms and soles of the feet are decorated with it; women prefer to paint hair with henna. This tradition attracts travelers, but unlike locals, they prefer to do graceful henna tattoos as a memory.