Tunisia
Tunisia is an idyllic holiday destination, attracting swarms of sun-seeking Europeans to its beautiful beaches each year. With a rich historical and cultural heritage, Tunisia offers visitors more than just a suntan. The variety of architectural styles on display is immediately apparent and provides insight into Tunisia’s past.
There are numerous Roman sites including an amphitheatre and an ancient sacrificial site, the Sanctuary of Tophet. The National Museum is located nearby and provides detailed historical information on the sites in its vicinity. One of Tunisia’s most popular attractions is the ruins of Carthage however, little remains of the structure and most of the other Roman sites are in much better condition.
Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, is easily accessed and its most popular haunts include the old Medina area and the French quarters, Ville Nouvelle. The Zitouna Mosque, built from the Roman Carthage ruins, is in the Medina area, while the Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul is situated in the Ville Nouvelle. The cathedral is a unique blend of Gothic, Byzantine and North African styles.
Off the beaten path, the Roman ruins of Dougga and the Coliseum are some of the country’s best preserved. Tozeur is home to the excellent Dar Charait Museum, which exhibits a fascinating array of relics from Sardinia’s past. The Bardo Museum, close to the cathedral showcases an extensive range of items from Cathaginian, Roman, early Christian and Islamic times.
Visitors to Tunisia have a wide range of accommodation to choose from. From beach resorts to more centrally located hotels, there is something to suit every budget. Four airports provide easy access to all destinations, with the main gateway being Tunis-Carthage International Airport, and the country’s flagship airline – Tunis Air – serves Europe, North Africa and the Middle East.