Mysterious country warm sun, desert heat and cool oases, date palms and spicy jasmine - this is magical Tunisia. For many vacationers, this is a country of the purest sandy beaches, a relaxing holiday in an atmosphere of warmth and peace, but there is certainly something to see in Tunisia and beyond the beach, going on a trip to interesting places - such as sacred temples, the majestic Carthage, the Colosseum, the sultry Sahara and other memorable sights of Tunisia. The country is distinguished by a high level of service: it meets high international standards, as evidenced by numerous reviews, and guides in Tunisia organize educational excursions in Tunisia, full of vivid impressions.
What to see in Tunisia Firstly
Overview of the main attractions from brief description will become your mini-assistant in planning your upcoming trip. Having studied this rating, everyone will find what to see in Tunisia in 1 day and for any other period of time, where to go in Tunisia, depending on capabilities and preferences.
1. The ancient city of Carthage
Ruins of the ancient city of Carthage Today Carthage is the most famous suburb of Tunisia, and once there, you will really have something to see in Tunisia: the ruins of the ancient city still stand on the shores of the Gulf of Tunisia, impressing with their grandeur and rich history. To this day, unfortunately, historians have not been able to find enough information about the origins of Carthage, but large-scale excavations continue in the surrounding areas. Thus, during excavations under the auspices of UNESCO, the ruins of several ancient cities that once existed on this beautiful coastal land have already been discovered.
2. Amphitheater in El Jem
Well-preserved Colosseum in El Jem The amphitheater is often compared to the Roman Colosseum - the age of this grandiose building already dates back 2 thousand years, and although today its arena is located significantly below the level of the modern streets of El Jem, its walls still tower above the modern buildings of the city and are visible from afar. Inside the amphitheater you can raid numerous underground passages, or standing in the audience, imagining what kind of spectacles unfolded before the eyes of the public.
3. City of Sidi Bou Said
The blue and white city of Sidi Bou Said with the Gulf of Carthage in the background Beautiful Sidi Bou Said is the most beautiful landmark of Tunisia, a town in blue and white colors, standing on a cliff, at the foot of which the Mediterranean Sea stretches, the Atlas Mountains and ancient Carthage can be seen in the distance. The town is unusual in that all its buildings are painted white, and the windows, fences and grilles are sky blue. According to the stories of the guides, once upon a time a noble French baron bought a house in this quiet picturesque place, and it was he who suggested that the residents paint their homes blue and white so that they would be less heated under the rays of the bright African sun
4. National Bardo Museum
Hall with exhibits in national museum Bardot Bernard Gagnon The Tunisian Bardo Museum is the main museum of antiquity, where for more than a hundred years unique valuable finds obtained during archaeological excavations throughout the country have been imported. The museum's exhibition represents a rich collection of Roman mosaics and other artifacts reflecting the history of civilizations in Tunisia, dating back more than 3 thousand years. Now there are more than 3 hundred mosaics, an extensive collection of marble statues, ancient ceramics, tombstones of priests, terracotta statues and much more.
5. Ancient city of Dugga
Famous temple- Capitol in the ancient Roman city of Dougga Dougga is one of the first places to see in Tunisia among the ancient ruined cities. Dougga was once a large, prosperous city of more than 25 thousand people, and today it is one of the best-preserved archaeological sites in North Africa. To this day, many Roman temples, fountains, water reservoirs, as well as theaters, markets, an aqueduct, necropolises and mausoleums have remained in their original condition, and even in some places traces of chariots have been preserved on the cobbled streets.
Look magnificent views Tunisia in this beautiful video!
6. Ancient city of Kerkuan
Foundation of the necropolis on a rocky hill in Kerkuan In the northeast of Tunisia, on the Cap Bon peninsula, there is one of the most important attractions of Tunisia - the ruins of the ancient city of Kerkouan. Since 1952, excavations have not stopped in these places. The Punic city, founded between the 6th and 3rd centuries BC, was destroyed by the Romans in 146 BC. Everything that remained of it was reliably preserved under a thick layer of sand and has survived to this day, giving our contemporaries the opportunity to see with their own eyes ancient buildings. The city itself was protected from external attacks by a double wall, and inside there was a well-organized drainage system with many water grooves.
The endless sandy expanses of the Sahara Desert in Tunisia The Sahara is one of the most mysterious and at the same time most attractive places in Tunisia. The vast territory of the Sahara is deserted, but there are peoples who inhabit these regions in oases. Vegetation and fauna in the desert are extremely sparse, but there is something else about the Sahara that attracts people to these parts. This is the unique beauty and charm that is endowed with sandy plains, dunes, salt lakes, rare oases and extraordinary local sunsets. Sahara tours, including camel rides or jeep rides, most often take place in the early morning.
8. Cave city of Matmata
Troglodyte dwellings in the cave city of Matmata For more than one and a half millennia, Berber tribes have lived in man-made chalk caves dug into the slopes of local mountains. These unusual 1-2-story dwellings are of great interest to visitors, but this way of living in the desert is not a whim, but the only way to protect yourself from the scorching heat of the African sun and from unprecedented temperature changes during the day. So, when the heat is 40-50 degrees, a comfortable temperature of 20-23 degrees remains inside the caves.
9. Gellala Village
Ceramic products of artisans of the island of Djerba Citizen59 On the Tunisian island of Djerba there is another interesting attraction of Tunisia - the village of Gellala, also known as the village of potters. The name itself speaks for itself - this area has been famous for its pottery, clay and ceramics since time immemorial. It is here that you can see how beautiful earthenware jugs, large dishes and small charming vessels for spices are born. In total, there are about 450 pottery workshops in the village, which have their own secrets for making durable and high-quality ceramic tableware.
10. Medina of Tunis
Sea Gate— the main entrance to the medina of the city of Tunis Dennis Jarvis In the general understanding, a medina is a city surrounded by a protective fortified wall. The Medina of Tunisia is different in that the wall here was demolished about 200 years ago as unnecessary, leaving only the gate. Other distinctive features of the Tunisian medina are its rounded shape, rather than the rectangular one, as in the classical view, as well as the mixture of styles - Spanish, Arabic, Turkish and Persian, associated with the construction of different quarters at different times. Tourists are also interested in this area due to the abundance of traditional oriental bazaars.
11. Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul
Sand beige facade of the Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul The Catholic church in the classical style was erected in honor of the famous priest Vincent de Paul, who was ransomed from Arab slavery. Majestic building, located on Independence Square in the city of Tunis, delights with its exterior decoration and rich interior. The dimensions of the temple are no less surprising - about 80 meters in length and almost 30 in height. A number of artists and sculptors worked on the design of the shrine. The special pride of the temple is the organ hall, which houses two powerful instruments, ordered at one time from the great organ builder Aristide Cavaillé-Cohl.
12. Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba
Tomb of the first president of independent Tunisia This is an important landmark of Tunisia in the city of Monastir, a very picturesque building, externally imitating a mosque, decorated with white marble and stone carvings. Here lies the body of the Tunisian politician, the famous builder of independence, Habib Bourguiba. Not only the external decoration, but also the internal interior of the mausoleum deserves attention: for example, the exhibition of the museum located here contains some of the president’s personal belongings - a desk, a chair and clothes. And the sarcophagus storing the body of the deceased is installed in a special room on a pedestal.
13. El Ghriba Synagogue
Courtyard, premises for pilgrims in the El Ghriba Synagogue What to see in Tunisia on the island of Djerba? The Tunisian island is famous for its famous landmark - the El Ghriba synagogue in the settlement of Riyadh. There are a great many versions of the foundation of the shrine: according to one of them, priests who escaped slavery from Jerusalem took the stone from Solomon’s Temple and laid it in the foundation of the future synagogue. Another legend says that on the hill where the synagogue now stands, a beautiful girl used to live in a hut, and some unknown force did not allow the inhabitants to approach her. One night her home caught fire and the girl died. The residents realized that the girl was a saint and built a synagogue in her honor. And these are not all the legends about the origin of the synagogue, and it is already difficult to figure out what is truth and what is fiction.
14. Uqba Mosque
Impressive walls of the Great Mosque of Kairouan Sidi Uqba 670 is one of the few Muslim mosques that allows adherents of other faiths inside. Today it is one of the largest shrines in Tunisia, created through a process of continuous construction over several centuries. In general, each leader who was in power brought something of his own to the construction of the mosque. Today, the large mosque space includes a large prayer hall, a huge courtyard paved with marble, and a large minaret. The decoration of the mosque and surrounding areas is distinguished by unique techniques of decorative work, different from traditional Byzantine techniques.
15. Al-Zaytuna Mosque (Olive Mosque)
Square minaret and patio of al-Zaytuna Mosque (Olive Mosque) Citizen59 The Olive Mosque, or al-Zaytuna, is the largest metropolitan mosque of antiquity. According to legend, in the place where this landmark of Tunisia is now located, there grew an olive tree, under which the very first preacher of the future mosque fulfilled his prayer vow. It is believed that construction began in 698, and since then the mosque has undergone several changes. The territory occupied by the mosque is about 5 thousand square meters. A library was also founded in the building in 1450, which is located on the left side of the courtyard. Overall, the courtyard is the only place in a mosque, accessible to people of other religions.
16. Ribat Fortress in Sousse
One of the walls of the Ribat fortress-monastery in Sousse In the medina of the city of Sousse, the Ribat fortress of 859 rises on a hill. It has the shape of a square with a side of 38 meters, and its powerful 4-meter thick defensive walls rise 12 meters. Ribat has a rather complicated history: initially there was a Byzantine fortress in its place, which was later razed to the ground. Later, in the 9th century, the 77-meter Khalef al-Fat tower was erected here, which, due to its height, began to serve as a lighthouse. Only in 1063 was the fortress itself erected, and its walls - even later, by 1205. Today you can visit the fortress Archaeological Museum, exhibiting a large collection of artifacts.
17. Ribat Fortress in Monastir (Ribat Hartem)
View of the medieval fortress Ribat Hartem Vajta Monastir also has its own fortress - Ribat Hartem from 767, and it also did not immediately acquire its final form. Initially, it occupied an area of only about 33 sq.m., but over time it grew and strengthened, and by the 19th century its area was already approximately 4,200 sq.m. Ribat has 3 levels, there are a lot of passages and spiral staircases. At one time, Ribat was a religious center and a place of pilgrimage, and played a defensive role only a few times. Today, inside the fortress you can visit the Museum of Islamic Art.
18. Kelibia Fortress
Kelibia fortress on top of a rocky spur David Stanley At the top of Cape Bon, about 100 kilometers from Tunis, the Kelibia fortress soars upward - the oldest fortress, founded in the 3rd century BC. The Carthaginians were the first to begin building the fortress. Today it is the largest surviving fortification in the country. At the base of the fortress lie large stones laid by the Carthaginians, and the upper part is made of natural stone. In the courtyard you can see the remains of a small mosque and a Byzantine fortress, and at the northern end there is a restored chapel.
19. Phrygia Zoo
Resting tigers at the Phrygia Zoo What to see in Tunisia among natural monuments? For example, the magnificent Phrygia Zoo, located on large territory 36 hectares between the cities of Sousse and Hammamet. It was founded in 2000 and is designed in a national style - its inhabitants live in large open spaces, not confined to cages. But despite the fact that, in essence, the animals live here in the wild, their freedom is only partial: visitors can observe predators only from specially designed platforms, and communicate with herbivores at the distance of an outstretched palm.
20. Ishkol National Park
Landscape of Ishkol National Park 25 kilometers from Bizerte there is a natural nesting site for waterfowl and migratory birds. Due to its location near densely populated areas of Tunisia, the site required special protection. This is how it was created national park Ishkol. Back in the 13th century, hunting on local lakes was prohibited here. Today in the park there is big lake with an area of 50 sq. km, mountains and hills of limestone, on which olive and pistachio trees grow. The hills are home to approximately 180 species of migratory and resident birds, including swans, ducks, flamingos and some rarer species.
This concludes the main list of the best attractions, but this is not all that its guests should visit in Tunisia.
Sights of Tunisia: what else to visit in Tunisia
The list of what to visit in Tunisia can be continued endlessly - its attractions are more than enough for several trips. After the first vivid acquaintance with the country, the time comes for other, no less interesting sights of Tunisia - we will give recommendations for visiting them.
21. Atlas Mountains
Thickets of date palms in the valley Atlas Mountains The huge ridge of the Atlas Mountains stretches along the coast of the African continent.
For many, a trip to the Atlas Mountains is a chance to enjoy their majestic landscapes, take photos, and see unique species of flora and fauna, some of which live only here. Once upon a time, these mountains were even home to the only species of bear on the continent - the Atlas bear, but now it is extinct. The name of the Atlas Mountains comes from Greece, from the name of Atlas, one of the mighty titans. The legend tells that Atlas was sentenced to the punishment of holding the firmament on his shoulders. To do this, Perseus turned the titan into stone - and this is how, according to legend, the Atlas Mountains were formed.
22. Djerba Island
Beach holiday on snow-white sand by the sea Hospitable Island Djerba has everything you need for a relaxing holiday on the coast Mediterranean Sea: this is a magnificent climate, allowing you to enjoy the sun and swim most of the year, and comfortable hotels, and a lot of entertainment options, and unique attractions. The island is surrounded by olive groves and there are also many date farms. The population of Djerba is unique - Berbers lived here, just like on the mainland, and the Arab conquerors failed to expel the local tribes. The Berbers of Djerba today are part of the Ibadite religious community.
23. Lake Chott El Jerid
Beautiful sunrise on the salt lake of Chott el Djerid In fact, this landmark of Tunisia is a salt marsh depression in the Sahara Desert. Throughout the year, the lake either dries up or fills up again, and it becomes a reservoir in the classical sense only in winter, during the rainy season. In summer, when the air temperature reaches 50 degrees, it dries out, leaving a thick crust of salt on the surface, which is covered with dry sand on top.
An amazing phenomenon in the vicinity of this lake is the “desert roses”, formed from minerals in the soils surrounding the salt marshes. These stone sculptures really resemble intricate flowers of various shades in shape.
24. Souq el-Jumah Market
Selling a variety of spices at the matthew hunt market In addition to a variety of historical attractions, Tunisia is known for its colorful markets. One of these is the Souq el-Juma market, the main focus of which is the trade in locally produced ceramics. Tunisian ceramics are sold here at the most affordable prices, so many guests of the country, once here, are sure to purchase some beautiful piece as a souvenir for themselves or as a gift - a vase, dish, service. In addition to ceramics, here you can buy other local paraphernalia - Berber jewelry, incense, spice scarves and other useful items.
25. Remnants of the scenery for “Star Wars”
Scenery from the filming of the movie "Star Wars" Once upon a time in 1976, Tunisia, with its unusual landscapes, was chosen for filming episodes of the film “Star Wars”. In total, there are more than 2 dozen places in the country where the famous saga was filmed. The most famous of these places is the town of Matmata, famous for the underground dwellings of the Berbers. Episode 4 of the saga was filmed in one of these houses, where a lot of scenery was erected. In 1995, one of the fans famous film restored the abandoned scenery, and now everyone can see with their own eyes the legendary filming location as it was 40 years ago.
Tunisia, fragrant with the aromas of Mediterranean greens and spicy oriental spices, combines thousand-year-old African traditions and culture new Europe. Seaside resorts, the amazing natural and man-made sights of Tunisia will surprise any lover exotic holiday on the African continent.
On south coast comfortably located in the warm Mediterranean Sea amazing country, which fascinates with its grandeur and rich history. We are talking about Tunisia - the pearl of the African continent, which attracts millions of tourists from all over the world every year. This state is famous not only warm sea, amazing beaches and unique oriental flavor, but also unique architectural and natural objects. The sights of Tunisia will not leave any traveler indifferent - they are so majestic and grandiose.
1. Amphitheater in El Jem
The amphitheater in El Jem is one of the most famous attractions in Tunisia. It was built in the 3rd century on the model of the Roman Colosseum. Historians suggest that the first stones of the foundation of this grandiose structure were laid in 230. Construction continued for eight years, however, it was never completed. Until the 7th century, the building remained unclaimed and almost disappeared from the face of the Earth - local residents began to dismantle it and use the stones for their needs.
The amphitheater in El Jem was built specifically for gladiator fights and chariot races. That is why the ancient architects conceived a real underground city with special rooms for animals, slaves and gladiators. About 30 thousand spectators, who were located on the steps of the amphitheater, could simultaneously watch their bloody battles. The famous film “Gladiator” was filmed in this building.
2. Ruins of Carthage
The ruins of one of the most majestic cities ancient world, founded in the 9th century BC. e., are located in the suburbs of Tunisia. For several centuries, this city-state fought with the Romans, and in the 2nd century BC. e. was completely destroyed by them. In its place was erected new town, who later became the most influential in the entire Mediterranean. It is its ruins that tourists see now.
Archaeologists have been able to partially restore only a few structures of that time. Among these is the Roman amphitheater for 5 thousand spectators, in which naval battles were held. Among the ruins of Carthage there are remains of residential areas, sanctuaries, Roman baths, as well as the longest aqueduct in ancient times. Nowadays, excursions to this landmark of Tunisia are very popular among tourists.
3. Gazi Mustafa Fortress
The Gazi Mustafa Fortress is considered the most monumental landmark of the island of Djerba. The structure was erected by the Arabs in the 9th century to protect against constant attacks by bloodthirsty pirates. The fortress is striking in its inaccessibility - it is surrounded along the entire perimeter by a deep moat, and its stone walls are 4 meters wide.
Throughout its history, this building has been destroyed and modernized several times. It acquired an additional floor and corner battle towers only in the 16th century. At the same time, the fortress received its name, which was given to it after the name of the Turkish military leader. Within the walls of the fortress, for three centuries, there was a pyramid of skulls of the Spaniards, who tried to recapture this structure for three months. The fortress also has a second name – Borj el-Kebir.
4. Medina of Tunis
Medina is considered the historical and spiritual heart of Tunisia, that is old center cities. The first buildings were erected here in the XII-XV centuries. The entire perimeter of Medina was surrounded by a fortress wall, of which nothing remains now. Only stone gates and part of the fortifications remind of this grandiose structure.
Currently, the Medina of Tunisia attracts tourists with its labyrinth of intricate narrow streets with buildings of different eras and styles, an ancient market with many shops and souvenir shops, as well as the Great Mosque (Jami ez-Zeitoun Mosque), which is the spiritual center of the entire country. The peculiarity of this attraction is its oval shape, while the rectangular one is considered classic. The change in shape occurred as a result of its multiple expansions over the last millennium.
5. La Ghriba Synagogue
La Ghriba is considered the oldest synagogue not only in Africa, but also in the world. It is located on the territory of the Tunisian island of Djerba in one of the former Jewish villages. Historians suggest that it was erected in the 6th century. BC e. Its founders were exiled Jews who rushed to seek refuge for themselves after the invasion of Jerusalem by the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar and his destruction of the Temple of King Solomon.
From the ancient synagogue, only a small part of the foundation has survived to this day. The modern building that tourists see was built in the 19th century on the site of a 16th-century building. The name of the synagogue – La Griba – translated from Arabic into Russian means “amazing”. And this attraction, in fact, surprises - not only with its rich interior decoration, but also with a real treasury of valuable religious literature. Among the sacred scrolls is the world's oldest copy of the Torah.
6. Fort Hammamet
To the list of the most popular tourist destinations Hammamet Fort in Tunisia. The history of the fort, which rises in the center of the Medina of Hammamet, dates back to the end of the 10th century. This fortress, like others on this coast, was built specifically to protect followers of Islam from militant Christians and pagans from the desert and sea. Subsequently, the structure was modernized several times, as a result of which it became possible to place shooters and firearms on it. In the 20th century it was restored again and turned into a museum.
The fortress has the shape of a deformed square with walls 13 meters high. Currently, on its territory you can see ancient Turkish cannons, a fortress wall, a museum of the history of the fort and a souvenir shop. In the center of the fort is the tomb of the warrior monk Sidi Bu Ali, who lived there in the 15th century.
7. Ribat Fortress
The ancient fortress of Ribat is one of the most striking attractions of the Tunisian city of Monastir. The structure was erected in the 8th century to protect against enemy attacks, and at first it was small in size. But over time, it was transformed into a large-scale defensive complex, the first largest built in North Africa in the Middle Ages. The defenders of the fortress were devoted Muslim monks who were trained in the basics of military affairs and combat tactics.
The fortress covers an area of more than 4 thousand square meters. Due to numerous reconstructions, many passages and passages appeared in the walls of the building, as a result of which the Ribat became like a labyrinth. The building has been perfectly preserved, and therefore films are often filmed there. Some of the most popular blockbusters filmed in Ribat are “Indiana Jones” by S. Spielberg and “Jesus of Nazareth” by V. Zeffirelli.
8. Sahara Desert in Tunisia
The Sahara Desert is one of the most interesting places in Tunisia for tourists. The Sahara is the largest hot desert on the planet. It covers more than 8.6 million square kilometers, which is about a third of the area of all of Africa. Many people mistakenly believe that the desert is pure sand, deserted expanses and endless golden plains with dunes and pits. However, sands occupy only 25% of the Sahara, the rest of the area is mountains of volcanic origin and rocky rocks.
The desert has many attractions, including the ruins of an outpost of the Roman Empire - Fort Tisavar, highest dune eastern Erg Zemlyet el Borma, monolithic sacred mountain Tembain, and, of course, the most scenic spots The Saharas are oases surrounded by palm groves.
9. National Bardo Museum
This museum, located in the suburb of Le Bardot in the Tunisian capital, is rightfully considered a landmark throughout North Africa. He is the owner of the most valuable funds - a large number of unique artifacts, as well as the world's largest collection of Roman mosaics dating from different eras.
The National Bardo Museum is located in country palace XIII century, erected for the then ruling Hafsid dynasty. It first opened its doors to visitors in 1888. Thanks to the exhibits presented there, you can get acquainted with the history of Tunisia and the legendary Carthage, see household items, jewelry, ceramics of the ancient Romans, and also consider marble statues of their gods. But the main wealth in this museum are mosaics - it presents both the first examples of this art, simple in technique and modest in scale, and monumental, rich compositions of the Romans of our era. This mandatory place to visit in Tunisia!
10. Mosque of the Seven Sleepers
In a small mountain Berber village called Chenini, the Mosque of the Seven Sleepers is located. On its territory there are five-meter tombs in which, according to legend, giants rest. According to legend, this temple was founded by the Berbers in memory of seven Christians who lived during the Roman Empire. Fleeing from the pursuit of Roman legionnaires, they took refuge in a cave, where they plunged into uninterrupted sleep for four centuries. At the same time, their bodies continued to grow, and when they woke up, they appeared before the local residents as real giants. After death, their bodies were buried in accordance with Muslim rites, since at that time Islam was already flourishing in the country.
11. Medina Soussa
The medina of Sousse was built in the Middle Ages, around the 9th-11th centuries. This architectural complex is one of the excellent examples of Arab architecture that has survived to this day in its original appearance. The winding, narrow streets of the Medina are surrounded by a ring of walls made from stone blocks that remain from destroyed ancient Roman buildings.
The Medina of Sousse is decorated with picturesque ancient buildings. It is here that the main attractions of the city are located - prayer houses, including the Great Mosque, Bu Ftata, Sidi Ali al-Ammar and others, the Kasbah fortress, the archaeological museum, the Ribat fortress-monastery, as well as shopping district with local crafts and souvenirs.
12. Oasis Shebika
Sights of Tunisia are not only architectural monuments. You can verify this by visiting a truly heavenly place at the foot of the Jebel el-Negub mountain - the Shebika oasis, which is considered one of the most beautiful oases on the entire planet. Every year, tens of thousands of tourists from all over the world come to see this natural phenomenon - a sky-blue lake with lush green vegetation, surrounded on all sides by scorching desert sands and barren rocks.
In ancient times, there was a Roman outpost on the territory of Shebika; later shelters for the Berbers were built in these places. However, their village was almost completely destroyed by mudflows, and therefore the residents had to leave this area. Now Šebika is a favorite destination for tourists and filmmakers. This mountain oasis became a natural setting for E. Minghella’s film “The English Patient,” which was filmed in 1996.
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Gazi Mustafa Fortress
Djerba, Houmt-Souq, Borj Ghazi Mustafa
The Gazi Mustafa Fortress is the most monumental landmark of Djerba, located on the embankment of the island's capital, the city of Houmt Souk. Its long and glorious military history dates back to the 9th century, when the Arab conquerors of North Africa erected a fortified citadel on the coast to protect against pirates.
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New medina in Yasmine Hammamet
Yasmine Hammamet, New Medina
The new medina of Yasmine-Hammamet, or, as it is also called, the Mediterranean medina, is a mandatory item on the cultural program of tourists vacationing at this resort and in Hammamet itself. This is an ancient Arab city behind the fortress wall, recreated with demonstrative care.
The history of the region is conventionally divided into Punic, Christian and colonial periods. This is reflected in museum evidence from earlier times, in the exterior and interior of buildings, and works of art. However, if we talk about the capital of the state, called Tunisia, the colonial era can be called a very significant period for it. The French colonists did not treat the local culture with liberal understanding and respect, imposing their own rules. And since the nostalgia for the “best of cities” had already eaten up them, a city similar to Paris grew up on the African continent. The buildings of the 19th century have not completely survived to this day, but the colorful “Arab Paris”, surrounded on the perimeter by more traditional buildings and preserved as a small business district, still attracts the attention of tourists from all over the world. Don't miss the chance to stroll along Habib Bourguiba Avenue and visit the medina ( Old city, founded in the 8th century), explore the Zitouna Mosque and the Torbet el-Bey mausoleum, look into the palaces of Dar el-Bey, Dar ben Abdellai and the famous Bardo Palace, which houses a very colorful Mosaic Museum.
Every town in Tunisia is fraught with many interesting places; on every street you just have to turn away from the hustle and bustle, smell, taste and listen - and you are guaranteed a sea of unforgettable impressions!
However, the main attraction of Tunisia is the ancient remains of the city of Carthage. Being the elder brother of Rome, it was the most prosperous city Arab world, until it seriously set its sights on world domination - and therefore even its location on the top of a mountain did not save it from destruction by the warlike Romans. It was literally wiped off the face of the earth a couple of thousand years ago, but to this day the ruins of Carthage retain echoes of magnificent architecture, and its cultural heritage and household items, works of art adorn the collections of museums not only in Tunisia, but also in many world capitals. Must-sees include the Carthage Amphitheater, Birsa Hill with the Cathedral of St. Louis, the National Museum of Carthage, the Baths of Emperor Antoninus Pius and the huge cisterns for collecting water at Maalga.
One of the best preserved archaeological parks in Tunisia and most of Africa, the real Roman city of Dougga testifies to the times when the local lands were provinces of Rome. Being listed World Heritage UNESCO, Dougga offers connoisseurs an abundance of ruins of ancient buildings from all times: an amphitheater built in 199 AD. e., which still serves as the site for the annual theater festival, the Punic mausoleum, the forum and the Square of the Winds, the Capitol, the Baths of Caracalla, 21 temples of various periods and religions and much more.
Sidi Bou Said, 17 km from the capital of Tunisia, is a small town-museum on a hill offering a picturesque view of the Gulf of Carthage. The landscape is perfectly complemented by the contrasts of local architecture: snow-white buildings with piercing blue shutters, window frames and figured bars on them. Since 1915, it has been legally prohibited to change anything in the appearance of buildings, and therefore most of the houses in the old part of the town are ready-made museum exhibits. Particularly worth paying attention to is the Dar el-Annabi estate, as well as the Museum of Arabic and Mediterranean Music.
To wander the streets of the most authentic medina of Tunisia, you need to go to Kairouan - the once holy capital of Tunisia, for Muslims and is still considered the fourth most important after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. In addition, Kairouan, founded in the 7th century by the Arabs at the intersection of the most important trade routes in Africa, is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Among the must-see places, it is worth highlighting the main mosque and the ruins of the Ruler's Palace, as well as authentic carpet workshops with wonderful knotted carpets.
Sousse is the noisiest youth resort coast with the inevitable medina behind the fortress wall, medieval fortress, picturesque architecture, as well as the noisiest discotheque on the coast - Bora Bora. Very close by is Port el Kantaoui, a tiny port garden that attracts tourists. luxury hotels, villas and a wonderful yacht club.
But connoisseurs of silence, solitude and natural attractions should not miss an excursion to Douz - the gateway to the silence of the largest Sahara desert on the planet. To confirm this, on the outskirts of the city, right in front of the Great Dune, there is a monument in the form of a key. Numerous excursions to the Sahara depart from here, but the city itself remains part of it: one half of it is similar to many other Tunisian cities from their medina, and the second reminds that this is a real oasis in the desert with a thicket of date palms. Today it is tourist centre with all the necessary services.
However, this is only part of the variety of impressions, the most curious evidence of antiquity and modern flavor that you will find in Tunisia. Every town here is fraught with many interesting places; on every street you just have to turn away from the hustle and bustle, smell, taste and listen - and you are guaranteed a sea of unforgettable impressions!
The territory of Tunisia has historically always been inhabited by various peoples, so it is not surprising that many objects have been preserved on this land cultural heritage. This article tells you which attractions of Tunisia every tourist must visit.
Historical sights of Tunisia
The amphitheater was built by the proconsul Gordian, who ruled North Africa in the mid-3rd century. The scale of the construction was enormous - the theater could accommodate thirty thousand people, and the length of the structure was 65 meters. But the consul’s plans were not destined to come true - construction was stopped 8 years after the start of work.
The amphitheater is very reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum, which is why films about gladiators are often filmed here. Some ancient Roman mosaics still exist today. For lovers of antiquity - TOP 40 attractions of Italy and historical places of Turkey.
In North Africa for a long time there was the Phoenician state of Carthage with its capital of the same name. This country for a long time offered fierce resistance to the Roman Empire, but in the Punic War, Carthage was defeated, and Roman legionaries destroyed the once prosperous Mediterranean port of Carthage to the ground. However, the ruins of this city have survived to this day, and tourists visit these places every year to look at the remains of buildings from the 4th century BC.
Cave settlements are the only way to hide from the heat in the desert. From time immemorial, Berber tribes have lived in caves cut out of holes in the mountains. Surprisingly, 1,800 people continue to live in such houses. Each apartment has several rooms, in general the layout is no different from ordinary apartment in the city. Locals they even manage to keep livestock in cave houses. Cave City constantly attracts a huge number of curious visitors.
During the reign of the Roman Emperor Anthony Pius, baths were built in Carthage, the ruins of which have survived to this day. At one time, the baths were considered the most important buildings in Roman Carthage - local nobility regularly gathered here to discuss political and social issues. The buildings themselves were supported by massive marble columns, and recently one of them was restored and put in its original place. This Tunisian landmark offers scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
The Ribat Haarlem fortress is the most famous landmark of Tunisia. It was built in the 8th century to strengthen the defense of Monastir from external enemies. Gradually the castle expanded, new buildings were added to it, and today a whole historical complex and religious shrine remains. Now there is a museum of Islamic art here, in the halls of the fortress various mosaics, chronicles, textile items, paintings are exhibited, and a beautiful mosque has also been preserved.
The National Museum is one of the oldest cultural places in Tunisia. The building is made in the Byzantine style. All archaeological finds from Carthage are exhibited in this museum. Among the exhibits there are sculptures, pottery, stone figurines from the Roman and Phoenician periods of the history of Carthage. In front of the entrance to the museum there are statues of ancient Roman gods. From the windows of the building opens gorgeous view to Tunisia and the Mediterranean.
Theatrical art was considered honorable in the Roman Empire, so theaters were built in all corners of the vast state. Tourists often ask what to see in Tunisia from such establishments? The most beautiful theater was located in Carthage. At one time, the theater seated 5,000 people. The stage has not survived to this day - it was destroyed by the Arabs back in the 7th century, but tourists can examine the ruins of the spectator rows and several marble columns on which the entire massive structure was supported. Nowadays various events and exhibitions are held here.
The port of El Kantaoui is a popular tourist center, which constantly hosts entertainment events and discos. However, this city also has a historical landmark of Tunisia - the fortress gates, which were built in the middle of the 12th century. The city's defensive structures are an example of Muslim medieval fortification art. At the same time, the fortress gate fits perfectly into the cheerful and riotous atmosphere of Port El Kantaoui.
The main defensive structure of ancient Carthage was the Byrsa fortress. During the siege of the city, the Romans destroyed the citadel, but the ruins of the huge fortress have survived to this day. Every year archaeologists find more and more artifacts here, including Phoenician ones. Most of the items found are now stored in the national museum, but some of the artifacts and the living quarters themselves are located directly in the fortress. Birsa is also home to several Christian cathedrals and churches.
In the 19th century, the ruins of the city of Dougga were found in the northwestern part of Tunisia. This is a Roman settlement, the construction of which dates back to the 2nd-3rd century BC. Almost all the cultural buildings of that time have been preserved here - the temple of Juno Celeste, the Capitol, the mausoleum of Ateban, the triumphal arch of Septimius Severus, the theater and the baths. Every year, a festival of ancient drama is held on the stage of the theater in the city of Dugga, which annually attracts thousands of tourists.
We'll tell you what attractions you must see in Tunisia. The article contains photos and descriptions of the most different places. Read before your trip.
Tunisia is famous not only for its excellent beaches with white, flour-soft sand and thalassotherapy. This North African country has many attractions: from historical ruins dating back to the times of the Roman Empire, to noisy and colorful oriental bazaars, beautiful mosques and quiet lagoons with pink flamingos.
Monuments
The mysterious Arab country still retains traces of the great Roman Empire. The most impressive evidence of those times is the Colosseum in El Jem, protected by UNESCO. The amphitheater, designed for 30,000 spectators, could easily compete in scale with the Colosseum in Rome. Bloody gladiator fights were regularly held there, but now summer time Here classical music is played by European orchestras.
The ruins of the famous are no less impressive. Two thousand years ago this ancient city, built in 814 BC, was considered the largest and most influential on the entire coast. However, in 146 BC. it was completely destroyed by the Romans, and now only miraculously surviving fragments of buildings remind of its former greatness.
A real treasure Antiquities – Dugga. In this archaeological park you can get an excellent idea of the ancient city: there is an amphitheater, temples from different periods, a Punic mausoleum, the Square of the Winds, a forum, the Baths of Caracalla and the Capitol with 8-meter columns. On the stone pavement you can see traces of chariots that passed here thousands of years ago.
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The country's largest province, Tatooine, gained worldwide fame thanks to George Lucas' Star Wars film saga, in which the planet of the same name appears. By the way, the scenes on this planet were filmed here.
Lovers of antiquity will also enjoy the ruins of the Punic city of Pupput, lying between Sousse and Carthage. The remains of mosaics, ruins of baths and ancient Roman dwellings have been preserved here. It is also worth visiting Nabeul, where the ruins lie ancient city Neapolis and the city of Kerkouan with the remains of a Punic settlement of the 6th century BC.
In addition to the ancient ruins, the following architectural attractions stand out:
- The fortress of Kelibia is a city of the same age as Carthage;
- the ancient fort of Ribat in Monastir with its labyrinths of passages and stairs;
- Ribat in Sousse - its watchtowers offer a picturesque view of the old town and sea port;
- the Kasbah fortress, which currently serves as both a prison and a lighthouse;
- Gazi Mustafa fortress with preserved ancient cannons;
- Fort Hammamet, from whose walls a magnificent panoramic view of the bay opens;
- the mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba with a large gilded dome and openwork Moorish galleries;
- elegant Cathedral St. Vincent de Paul, erected at the end of the 19th century;
- one of the oldest shrines in the world is the El Ghriba synagogue, where the Torah manuscript is kept;
- the Uqba Mosque, the largest in Tunisia;
- Az-Zaytuna Mosque is the main mosque in the country,
- the Mosque of the Seven Sleepers in the Tataouine region with five-meter tombs of giants.
To get a complete impression of the history of Tunisia, it is worth visiting the Bardo Museum. Within its walls there is a rich collection of Roman mosaics from Punic times to the Byzantine period, as well as interesting artifacts and valuable finds found during archaeological excavations in different parts of the country. The interior interiors of the museum are also admirable, because it is located in the buildings of the Bardo Palace, built in the Middle Ages on the model of the Alhambra Palace.
It will be interesting to visit the Museum of the History of Hammamet, which presents the life of the city in an interesting form, and the Museum of Folk Traditions in Gellale, where you can see scenes from the traditional life of the inhabitants of Djerba.
Nature
Beaches
No matter how you fascinate your ancient history architectural sights of Tunisia, chic snow-white beaches with fine sand delight tourists even more. The most beautiful beaches are in Hammamet, Mahdia, Zarzis and on the island of Djerba. Picturesque bays and grottoes decorate the beaches of Raf Raf and El Khawariya. Yasmine Hammamet Beach attracts those who value developed infrastructure and availability water activities, clean sand and a gentle entrance to the water. And the beaches of La Marsa and Raoued are distinguished by peace and tranquility.
The Mediterranean Sea, while not as colorful as the Red Sea, does attract divers with its wrecks, from ancient Roman galleons to World War II ships. The most interesting diving spots are on the northern coast (from Bizerte to Tabarca), between Hammamet and Sfax, near Mahdia, on the island of Djerba and on the La Galite archipelago.
Sahara Desert
National parks
There are also real “green islands” in Tunisia where you can hide from the dry heat - National parks and nature reserves. Fresh air delights the small Ishkol National Park, most of the territory of which is occupied by the lake of the same name, surrounded by olive and pistachio groves. This park is famous for being a stopover for migratory birds arriving in Africa for the winter.
From the capital of Tunisia, you can head to the foothills of Jebel Chaambi, covered in giant Aleppo pine trees, in Chaambi National Park, a popular local attraction. In the north of the country, the Bucornine National Park has recently opened, where many beautiful flowers grow, including wild orchids and tulips, and wild cats, jackals, turtles and lizards roam the territory.
You can watch monk seals and millions of birds in biosphere reserve Il Zembra e Zembreta on the islands of Zembra and Zembreta. On the border with Algeria is the Jebel Chambi Nature Reserve, where gazelles, mouflons, foxes and spotted hyenas live peacefully.
National parks also worthy of attention: El Feya with Barbary deer, Bou Hedma with a preserved savannah landscape, Zbil with red foxes and Libyan ferrets.
Entertainment
To fully experience the soul of Tunisia, you should definitely visit the local bazaars. Colorful oriental markets can be found in the Medina (old city) of Tunis and the Medina of Hammamet. Tunisian traders sell everything in their shops: from national fez caps to gold jewelry and handmade clothing. At the same time, there, on the narrow cozy streets of the Medina, you can sit in authentic cafes or simply wander between ancient houses, absorbing the amazing oriental atmosphere.
The new Medina of Yasmine Hammamet makes an unusual impression: on the one hand, it is an ancient Arab city, recreated down to the last detail (with squares, narrow streets, shopping shops and hammams), on the other hand, it is an entertainment complex where you can taste European cuisine in restaurants or watch the popular dance performance “1001 Nights”.
