Experience Tunis

Tunis is a vibrant and historic city known for its rich culture and beautiful architecture.

Overview

Tunis, the capital city of Tunisia, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers visitors a truly unique African experience. Located on the Mediterranean coast, Tunis is a city of contrasts, blending rich history and modernity seamlessly. From the stunning architecture of the ancient medina to the bustling markets and modern shopping centers, Tunis has something to offer every traveler. The city is also home to numerous museums, including the Bardo National Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of Roman mosaics. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich history or simply soak up its vibrant culture, Tunis is sure to provide you with a breathtaking experience that you won’t soon forget.

City History

Founded in the 2nd millennium BCE, Tunis began as a Berber settlement before falling under Phoenician control. The city flourished during the Roman Empire, particularly as the nearby Carthage became a major center of commerce and power.

Following the fall of Carthage, Tunis experienced waves of conquerors, including the Byzantines, Arabs, and Ottomans. The Arab conquest in the 7th century CE marked a significant cultural and religious shift, introducing Islam and Arab culture. Under the Aghlabid dynasty in the 9th century, Tunis became an important Islamic center, with the construction of the Zitouna Mosque highlighting its significance.

The city’s fortunes waxed and waned through the medieval period, facing Crusader attacks and internal strife. However, under the Hafsid dynasty (1230-1574), Tunis reached its zenith, becoming a prosperous hub of trade and intellectual activity. This period saw the expansion of its medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site today, known for its labyrinthine streets, vibrant souks, and historic architecture.

In the 16th century, Tunis came under Ottoman control, and later, in the 19th century, it became a French protectorate. This colonial period left a lasting impact on the city’s urban landscape, blending French colonial architecture with traditional Tunisian styles.

Modern-day Tunis is a dynamic metropolis that reflects its storied past. The city center is a mix of historical sites, such as the Bardo Museum, which houses an extensive collection of Roman mosaics, and modern amenities. The medina remains a bustling heart of Tunis, offering a glimpse into the city’s vibrant heritage.

Things to See

The Bardo Museum: This world-renowned museum houses one of the largest collections of Roman mosaics in the world. The expertly curated displays give you a glimpse into Tunisia’s rich history and culture.

The Medina of Tunis: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Medina of Tunis is a maze of narrow streets and alleys that are lined with souks, mosques, and traditional houses. A guided tour of the Medina is highly recommended to fully appreciate its beauty and history.

The Carthage Ruins: This ancient city was once the center of the Carthaginian civilization and is now a fascinating archaeological site. The ruins of the ancient city include the Punic Port, the Antonine Baths, and the Carthage Museum.

The Zitouna Mosque: This is one of the oldest mosques in Africa and is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture. Non-Muslim visitors are welcome, but it’s important to dress modestly and remove your shoes before entering.

The Sidi Bou Said Village: Located on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, this charming blue and white village is a popular destination for tourists. The narrow streets are filled with art galleries, cafes, and shops selling traditional Tunisian handicrafts.

Getting In

By Air: Tunis is served by the Tunis-Carthage International Airport, which is located just a few kilometers from the city center. The airport is well-connected to major cities in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East, with several airlines offering direct flights to Tunis. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi or hire a car to get to your hotel or any other destination in the city.

By Land: If you’re coming from neighboring countries like Algeria or Libya, you can take a taxi or a bus to Tunis. There are several bus companies that operate services between Tunis and other major cities in North Africa. If you’re coming from Europe, you can take a ferry from Italy or France to the port of Tunis. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to the city center.

By Sea: Tunis is located on the Mediterranean coast, and there are several ports that serve the city. If you’re coming from Italy, you can take a ferry from Genoa, Naples, or Palermo to the port of Tunis. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to the city center. Overall, Tunis is a well-connected city with several options for getting there.

Currency

The official currency of Tunisia is the Tunisian Dinar (TND), which has been in circulation since 1958. The dinar is divided into 1000 milim, and banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, and 50 dinars, while coins are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 millimes. The Tunisian dinar is issued by the Central Bank of Tunisia, which is responsible for regulating the country’s monetary policy and maintaining price stability. As a result of Tunisia’s strong economic growth over the past decade, the dinar has remained relatively stable against other currencies, making it a popular choice for trade and investment in the region. While the dinar is widely accepted throughout Tunisia, it can be difficult to find exchange services outside of major cities and tourist areas. As such, it is recommended that travelers exchange their currency at airports or banks upon arrival in the country to ensure they have enough cash on hand for their stay.