On an island in the Mediterranean Sea.
The Lotus-Eaters, or lovers of the lotus, are mentioned in the poem "Odyssey" and in the works of Herodotus. According to legend, Odysseus's ships were cast ashore by a storm on an island whose inhabitants offered the sailors to try the local delicacy — the lotus. The sweet and honey-like flowers caused forgetfulness in everyone who tasted them, and the sailors forgot their desire to return home, deciding to stay on this island forever.
The power of the lotuses allowed the beautiful nymph Calypso to keep Odysseus with her for seven years, trying to make him forget Penelope and love her. However, the gods, taking pity on him, sent Hermes with the order to free Odysseus. When leaving the island, Odysseus had to use force and tie his men, who were under the influence of the floral charms, to the benches of the ship.
In the mid-20th century, historians presented compelling evidence that the mythical land of the lotus-eaters is a small island of Djerba, covering only 500 square kilometers, immersed in greenery. It is also called the Mediterranean Tahiti. The island is located in the Mediterranean Sea, in the Gulf of Gabes, just two kilometers off the coast of Tunisia. Several species of lotus and water lilies grow here, as well as date palms, the fruits of which, according to Herodotus, were referred to in the "Odyssey."
However, modern researchers lean towards another version. The most suitable candidate for the role of the flower of forgetfulness is the Egyptian lotus — Nymphaea caerulea. Its flowers have psychotropic effects, and fractions with sedative effects can indeed be obtained from them. Excavations conducted on Djerba have uncovered the ruins of ancient cities. Written sources mention that the Berbers — the indigenous people of North Africa — have always lived on the island. They still live here, speak their ancient language, grow dates, fruits, olives, and grapes, and engage in fishing.
Perhaps the Berbers were the lotus-eaters; at least, in northern Africa, some tribes still produce wine and juices from the flowers and fruits of the lotus.
