Top 10 Archaeological Sites in Tunisia

Tunisia is full exceptional archaeological sites with its Phoenician, Roman, Arab, European and Byzantine heritage. When you are in Tunisia you can combine sun and discovery of the amazing culture. These beautiful ancient treasures will surely be a head turner.

1 – Carthage

The archeological site of Carthage is spread out in what is the present city of Carthage and World Heritage of Unesco since 1979. It was founded in the 9th century BC by Phoenicians. The two Punic points are absolutely stunning along with the impressive remains of the Antonine Baths.

You can really see how this place could come alive these many years ago.

Carthage

 

2 – Bulla Regia

Bulla Regia is located in the northwest of Tunisia and is one of the main stages of cultural tourism in this region. There are over 17 centures of history here and is extended over 60 hectares. There are patrician homes with amazing mosaic pavements which makes this the best example of ancient domestic architecture.

When you are in Bulla Regia you will feel as if you were from this place and were living there with your family. It is amazing to step back in time and enjoy this feeling.

Bulla Regia

 

3 – Kerkouane

Located on the eastern coast of the peninsula of Cap Bon Kerkuane is six kilometers north of Hamman Ghezeze. Here is a city and a necropolis which is listed on the World Heritage list of Unesco. The site has the distinction of being the only example of Punic architecture. It has not changed since later civilizations. This is a great feat since many times tourism will take over and begin to change the look of things.

Kerkouane

 

4 – El Jem

El Jem is located two hours from Tunis ad is a former Roman colony which was used for the production of olive oil. It is also well known for its archeological site where one can admire the Colosseum Thysdrus which was built in the third century. It can hold 35,000 spectators. This makes it one of the largest amphitheatres in the Roman world at 41 meters high.

If you ever wanted to go somewhere to imagine a magnificent fight between the gladiators then this would be a great place for you to go. This location is breath taking and can really allow your imagination to run wild.

El Jem

 

5 – Sbeitla

This is a vestige of ancient Sufetula and is located in west-central Tunisia. There are 20 acres of land here and Sbeitla is renowned for its three temples. These temples were dedicated to Juno, Minerva and Jupiter. There is a theater, a spa complex, churches, triumphal arch and the forts of the Byzantine era.

You can spend all day just looking at the different places which are here. There is so much to see and do when you are in Sbeitla.

Sbeitla

 

6 – Dougga

Dougga is an archaeological site that is located in the delegation Teboursouk which is northworst of Tunisia. This is considered the “small Roman city best preserved of North Africa”. It is 70 hectares and has good conversation pieces in the monuments. It is considered one of the most beautiful ancient sites in the world. When you visit you must be prepared to be awed by its beauty.

Dougga

 

7 – Utica

Utica is located north of present-day Tunisia in the governorate of Bizerte. The remains here usually date back to Roman times. There is the peristyle garden, spa and villas which are decorated with mosaics, temples, walls and ancient tombs which were built into volcanic rock. Step back in time when you are in Utica. This amazing site will have you gasping.

Utica

 

8 – Gigthis

Gigthis is an ancient site which is in the south part of Tunisia. It is in the territory of Medenine and opposite the island of Djerba. It mainly the urban center of the ancient city where you’ll find the Roman Forum and its monuments. There are religious and official buildings as well as the most important which is the Capital building. Feel as if you were a resident there and in the very middle of the life that is being lived.

Gigthis

 

9 – Tubernuc

Tubernuc has the distinction of being preserved even though there has been mass tourism. The remains here date back to the Punic period but you should note that the excavations have revealed public baths and urban fabric which dates back to the first century. Can you imagine being back in Tubernuc time during the Punic period? How fantastic that would be.

Tubernuc

 

10 – Chemtou

Chemtou is located in the northwest of Tunisia. The ruins of Simitthu are attached to the province proconsul of Africa in Roman times. The remains extend over a 1,500 year period. The site offers over 80 acres to discover with temples, baths, an amphitheater, an aqueduct and he housing for the working of the quarry.

Chemtou

 

Conclusion

All of these beautiful places are all at your fingertips to be discovered when you come to Tunisia. You can choose to visit any of them that you would like but always make sure that you make enough time to see all of your favorite places.

With all of the different places that are available for you to see, there is no telling how long you could vacation here and site see. You will have many amazing photographs to share with people as they are excited to hear about your trip and see the beautiful images.

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Traditional Tunisian Clothing

While there have been many men and women who have switched their clothing over to that of the western world there are still men and women who wear the traditional dress. As Tunisians they are proud of their dress and are not afraid to keep wearing it.

When you go to Tunis you will notice that the traditional clothes are a part of the national heritage and the national identity. Most of the time instead of seeing the traditional Tunisian dress on the street you will see them at events such as religious events, circumcision ceremonies and also weddings.

When it comes to the old quarters of Tunis and go to a wedding you will look around and notice there is quite a large group of the men and the women who are wearing traditional garb.

 

Jebba

Jebba tunisia traditional

The most popular male costume is the Jebba. It is still worn by some men. The Jebba is made of silk and wool. It covers almost the whole body as the only parts that will be showing are the forearms and the calves. The Jebba can be worn with a Farmla which is a vest. Sometimes you will see a Sadra or Badia as well. The outfit is finished off with a jacket that is called a Montane and some baggy trousers or Sirouel. A silk sash is used as a sort of belt right at the waist. There are many different colors when it comes to the Jebba and t is considered a ceremonial garment. You will also see the traditional round felt hat called the Chechia.

 

Barnous

barnous tunisia traditional clothes

A Barnous may cover the Jebba. It is a well-known garment and has been sported by the Tunisian President in his public life. Elderly men are often caught wearing this garb as well. This is most common in the winter seasons. The Barnous is long hooded woolen coat much like a poncho but it has no sleeves. It is the crowning piece of the Jebba to give the wearer special prestige.

 

Blouza and Fouta

Fouta & Blouza tunisia traditional clothes

The Blouza and Fouta are two pieces of the same outfit. The Fouta is a dress made of cotton and silk. Women wrap this from their waist to their ankles. The Blouza is the bustier of the outfit. If you go to a wedding you will see the bride in a Kesswa Tounsia that is lined with crystal beads and rhinestones. This two piece outfit is made up of trousers and a bustier. This outfit was inspired by traditional wedding dresses of the past.

 

Kontra and Balgha

Kontra and Balgha

The Kontra and the Balgha are the traditional shoes that are loved by Tunisians but tourists love them as well. The closed leather shoes are often pointed or rounded at the end. The Balgha or the Kontra can be worn by men or women but most of the time you will find men wearing them. The Kontra is a beautiful shoe that is light sometimes all organic and should be worn with the Jebba or the Gulf-syle Siroual.

 

Safsari

Safsari tunisia clothes

The Sefsari is a large scarf that is made from yellow or white silk. It covers the entire body of the Tunisian woman. The Sefsari is still worn in some out of town areas by the older women but most young women do not wear it. If you go to the Tunis Medina and the souks you will see some of the women wearing the Sefsari. Most of the women do not cover their faces anymore. They just wrap that part around their head so they are more comfortable.

 

Weddings in Tunisia

If you really want to see an amazing sight then you want to go to a wedding in Tunisia. You will not get much notice when it comes to the actual invitation as it will only come about a week before the event. Don’t worry, everyone will have been asking you if you were coming months before the formal invites actually came out.

Modern Wedding Dress tunisia

 

The groom may wear a suit like in a Western wedding or they could be wearing the traditional jebba gown. If they are it will be beautifully embroidered. The bride on the other hand will most likely be adorned in an amazing white gown with jewels and a tiara will be atop her head. What will be worn at the wedding greatly depends whether the bride and groom are from the north or from the south. Those in the south are a little bit more traditional than those in the north.

Traditional Wedding Clothes tunisia

The beautiful garments of Tunisia can make anyone feel as if they are in a fairytale and allow you to greatly enjoy the beauty of the rich culture. Whether you are a native or an onlooker you will appreciate the how much work goes into each of the outfits here in Tunisia. It is true craftsmanship.

Sousse City Break – 7 Popular Things to Do

By land area Tunisia is the smallest country in North Africa. It’s beautiful and powdery white sand beaches attract many tourists. Sousse is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tunisia. There are so many different places to see and different things to do that you could spend forever here and not get finished with all of them. You do not have to worry about boredom here.

Let’s now look at 7 popular things to do in a Sousse.

 

1 – Beach Life

If you are a lover of beaches then you are going to love Sousse City. If you want to get a great taste of the beach with the most ease then you can pick one of the on beach hotels. There are many different resorts you can choose from to find the one that is best for your needs. You decide what you want and you will be able to make it work here in Sousse City. It’s preferable to stick to the hotels around Boujaafar beach in the city center.

boujaafar beach sousse

 

2 – Water Park

Do you enjoy water parks? There is plenty of fun to be had at Aqua Palace. This water park has great rates and allows you to have fun with the whole family. Whether you are ready for some excitement or just want to take time to relax. You will find something that is perfect for you when you visit Aqua Palace. The water slides, wave pool and other rides can keep you entertained all day long.

aqua palace sousse

 

3 – Amusement Park

Ready for a little more adventure? There are amusement parks nearby which will allow you to have fun and get out of the resort life. You will be able to find an amusement park a convenient distance away from your location. Sousse City climbing park will allow you to have a good time but also allow you to stretch your muscles and get out and about. This will allow you to feel great about the time you’ve spent. Also you can visit Friguia animal park or Hergula park which are nearby.

climbing park sousse

 

4 – Shopping in the Souks

If you’ve ever had a difficult time making a decision as to what you would like to buy before then you are really in for it when you come to one of the Souks. These beautiful outdoor markets will have your senses tingling as you look at all of the amazing selections. Kids and adults will love this outing. Make sure to bring plenty of money because you will find many things you will want to take home.

souk sousse

 

5 – Enjoy the Nightlife

Who doesn’t enjoy a great night out on the town? You can pick from the wide variety of restaurants and bars available in the city. Enjoy the live music and nightclubs as you dance the night away. Are you feeling lucky? Don’t worry you can check into the casino and see what is happening there. Take a stroll down to the lovely marina if you want to try some fresh fish dishes.

nightlife sousse

 

6 – Ancient Sites

You can visit the 9th century medina which is a Unesco World Heritage site. This is where you will find the Great Mosque, the ancient 8th century fortress as well as the Archeological Museum. If you are up for a maze you can also check out the catacombs which are under the city.

grand mosque

 

7 – Resort to the Resort

Are you done getting out and about? Are you ready for some relaxation? Why not check out some of the amazing services your resort has to offer? You can even book a resort that has a golf course if you are into golfing. Golf is a great stress reliever and you will be able to relax as you are playing through and listening to the beautiful sounds in Sousse.

golf sousse

 

Conclusion

Whether you are a newly wed couple and you want to be able to spend time alone together or if you are a family, you will be able to find something you are able to do together which will allow for a good time. Even single people love to come to Sousse City and enjoy a break. Whoever you are, you will be able to find a place which will fit you here.

 

Also check: Top 10 must-see attractions in sousse video