Dar Lasram
Tunis
Dar Lasram is a prominent palace located in the medina of Tunis, built between 1812 and 1819 by Hamouda Lasram, a wealthy landowner from an aristocratic family descended from a Yemeni tribe. The palace exemplifies traditional Tunisian residential architecture with a surface area of 2250 m². Its ground floor served as warehouse and service areas, the first floor housed family members, and the upper floor was reserved for guests. Architecturally, the palace features intricately decorated patios with Neo-doric capitals, stucco work, and painted ceilings adorned with vegetal arabesque motifs and sculpted roses framed geometrically. After Tunisia's independence and the abolition of habous properties, the Lasram family descendants lived there until the municipality acquired it in 1964. Since 1968, it has been used by the Association de sauvegarde de la médina de Tunis and the Tahar Haddad Club, reflecting its cultural and historic significance in preserving Tunis' heritage.
Plan your trip to Tunisia with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan to visit Dar Lasram during weekdays when the Association de sauvegarde de la médina de Tunis is active. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended to fully appreciate the palace's architectural details and historical context. The best time to visit is in the cooler months to avoid the summer heat typical of Tunis. Discounts may be available for students and groups upon inquiry.
Interesting facts
- •Dar Lasram covers a substantial area of 2250 square meters, making it one of the largest traditional residences in Tunis.
- •The palace's architecture includes Neo-doric capitals and intricate stucco decorations, blending classical and Islamic artistic styles.
- •The Lasram family were influential ministers known as 'ministers of the Pen' and held key administrative roles in Tunis.
- •The palace was considered inalienable due to its status as a habous property, a form of Islamic endowment.
- •Today, the palace serves cultural functions, housing the Association de sauvegarde de la médina and the Tahar Haddad Club.
History
The Lasram family, originating from a Yemeni tribe settled in Kairouan, were prominent aristocratic landowners and ministers in Tunis.
Hamouda Lasram acquired multiple neighboring properties to construct the palace between 1812 and 1819.
The palace remained a habous property, making it inalienable, and was inhabited by the family descendants until Tunisia's independence and the abolition of habous.
In 1964, the municipality of Tunis acquired Dar Lasram, and by 1968, it was allocated to the Association de sauvegarde de la médina de Tunis for preservation and cultural activities.
Place Guide
Main Patio1812-1819
The central courtyard features elegant arches supported by Neo-doric capitals, surrounded by richly decorated stucco work and painted ceilings with vegetal arabesque motifs, exemplifying traditional Tunisian artistry.
Family Floor1812-1819
The first floor was reserved for the Lasram family members, featuring private rooms with ornate ceilings sculpted with roses and geometric frames, reflecting the family's wealth and status.
Guest Floor1812-1819
The upper floor accommodated guests, providing elegant spaces that highlighted the social customs of hospitality in Tunisian aristocracy during the 19th century.
Contact
Phone: 71 560 896
