Tunisia : the wonder land _ the travel and tourism guide to Tunisia

[Iron Man]

. Tunisia : the wonder land _ the travel and tourism guide to Tunisia [فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل] [فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل] Hear the siren song that calls you to Tunisia. This hospitable land of colors and contrasts, spices and scents invites you to enjoy its natural beauty, ancient cities, lively festivals and warm friendliness of its people. Welcoming visitors to its shores has long been an honored Tunisian tradition and an impressive infrastructure of modern hotels, restaurants, international airports, tourism offices and information centers has been developped to add to our guests comfort and pleasure. [Tunisia, Jasmin]In this land of the familiar and the exotic one can watch the sunrise over the Sahara, enjoy a gourmet meal at a seaside resort and top off the evening with a midnight swim in the pool of a modern comfortble hotel. [فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل] Whether you prefer a long walk along miles of sparkling beaches, wind surfing the cool Mediterranean breezes, exploring ancient sites and legendary cities a game of golf or just a long lazy day relaxing on the warm golden sands, Tunisia has it all. [فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل] [فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل] The original inhabitants of Tunisia were the Berbers, followed by settlers and tradesmen from throughout the Mediterranean basin. Throughout the centuries, Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine and Visigoth settlers, colonizers and traders intermingled with the population. However it was the Arabs who, in the 7th century, exerted the most influence and established themselves permanently. Bedouin tribes from the east arrived in the 11th century and further reinforced the Arabic language and Moslem religion. The Berbers initially resisted assimilation retreated to the mountains, the island of Jerba, or the arid regions of the south behind their earthen fortresses, ksours.Centuries of intermarriage and trade broke down their isolation. The Tunisian of today, city dweller, rural farmer, inhabitant of the desert or the mountains is proud of his "Tunisian identity", a composite of various civilizational influences. Aware of their rich historical heritage, Tunisian people show a genuine interest and definite respect for others as evidenced in their moderation, tolerance and hospitality. Tunisians are quick to give directions and any form of assistance to the visitor who asks for help.The overwhelming majority speak Arabic and French.With modern education, English is taught today in all schools and is increasingly spoken especially by younger people.Some German and Italian are also spoken . .

[Iron Man]

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[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]


As with its landscape, Tunisia's climate offers a season for everyone's taste. Sailing, surfing, diving, golfing, exploring the archeological sites, deserts and oasis is a pleasure from [Tunisia, South]October to May when the average temperature ranges from 12-28° C.

Spring, March through May, brings spectacular displays of wild flowers throughout the countryside and Autumn, October to December, offer warm seas and a particularly golden sun. From June through September warm weather is the rule and August brings the peak of the summer heat. This is the season for the joy of ×××××××ing a sun bronzed body in the cool sparkling Mediterranean.

Sunrise Temp.
°F/°C Afternoon Temp.
°F/°C Precipitation (inches) Rel. (%) Humidity
JAN 44°/6° 61°/16° 7 66
FEB 46°/8° 63°/17° 7 66
MAR 49°/9° 66°/19° 8 66
APR 53°/11° 70°/21° 6 66
MAY 60°/15° 76°/24° 6 66
JUN 67°/19° 83°/28° 2 66
JUL 71°/21° 88°/31° 1 66
AUG 73°/22° 89°/31° 1 66
SEP 70°/21° 85°/29° 3 66
OCT 63°/17° 78°/25° 6 69
NOV 53°/11° 69°/20° 7 66.5
DEC 46°/8° 63°/17° 6 66.5

[The Land]

[Iron Man]

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[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[Getting Around]
Here in the north Tabarka and mountainous Aïn Drahim offer a stately welcome with oak, pine and cork forests that meet a rocky coast. Visit the south of the oases, Gabes, Tozeur and Nefta where palm groves gentle the proud Sahara.

On your way travel the thousand mile coastline and breathe in the nectar of Cap Bon-Hammamet and Nabeul with their orchards of golden lemons and fragrant orange blossoms. As Tunisia is the heart of the Mediterranean, so the Sahel is the heart of Tunisia, noble Kairouan and light hearted Sousse where ancient olive trees stand in symmetry for mile after mile. Lastly, hear the song of Djerba and like Ulysses, stay

getting around in Tunisia
Tourist Information: In Tunis, 1 Avenue Mohammed V. 216-1-341-077 (Office National du Tourisme Tunisien - ONTT).

By Train - Modern and comfortable trains depart from Tunis Station at Place Barcelona southwards to Gabes, via Hammamet, Sousse, (branch lines to Monasir and Mahdia), Sfax. Northwards to Bizerte, Tabarka, Dougga. For first class seats you should reserve in advance especially during peak season. For stopovers, ask for a "bulletin d'arrets"when you buy your ticket. A "blue card" may be purchased from the SNCFT at the main train stations for unlimited trips for one, two, three weeks. There is a small charge for reservations on first class.

Trains from Tunis and everywhere are run by the National Train Company (SNCFT). Its headquarters in Tunis can be reached at (216) 1- 490 - 391.

From Tunis to the north surburbs and beaches, Carthage, Sidi Bou Said, La Marsa take the TGM, an electric surburban line.


By Coach/ Bus - Coach service covers all the main towns throughout Tunisia, with over 70 routes from Bus stations in Tunis at "Gare Bab el Fellah" or "Bab Alioua"for Southern Tunisia and "Gare Bab Saadoun" for Northern destinations. Again all public transportation is usually crowded during the summer and holidays - especially weekends.

Buses are run by the SNTRI out of these two locations. For Buses to northern destinations call (216 - 1 - 562 - 299). For Southern destinations call (216 -1 - 490 - 391). Times and schedules are published in local papers. Check the schedules repeatdly.


By Car - All major car rental agencies have offices in Tunis and large cities. In general Tunisian roads are good, with some 30,000 kilometers of main roads and 10,000 secondary roads. Drivers tend to be "Mediterranean". Services stations are located throughout the country, some quite modern and well equipped. Road Maps are available at rental agencies or in most bookstores and Tunisian tourist offices also offer guides and maps.

In Tunis the metro, actually a tramway, covers a great part of the capital. Taxis are also available, the metered fares inexpensive but the yellow cabs are restricted to the Tunis area. Larger Taxis can be rented for longer trips but be sure to discuss and set the fare beforehand as their return trip will be billed.


Hotels and Restaurants:

Tunisia's office of Tourism is encouraging restaurants throughout the country to expose the "Tourism Restaurant" sign which includes their classification: one, two, three or four forks. Most have the menu with the prices posted outside. Be aware that in some restaurants fish is priced "Selon Grandeur", according to size..

[Iron Man]

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[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

An ideal climate, a long and gentle seacoast, Tunisia, the northernmost country of Africa has for over 3000 years witnessed the passage of Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines, Turks, Spanish and French. They came as fugitive s or adventurers, to conquer or to claim, warriors and missionaries, traders and farmers each leaving a part of their story in stone or mosaics, on hills of Carthage and the threshold of the Sahara.

This heritage, Tunisia's greatest wealth has been held in trust and preserved in hundreds of sites and museums from the small Punic [Antonin Baths]museum in Utica to the vast collections of the prestigious National Museum of Bardo. Most Museums are closed on Mondays, whereas many on-site archeological museums and ruins are open all week. An entrance fee is usually charged and a caretaker will often act as guide.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The Tunisians "joie de vivre" is reflected in their festivals. Even the smallest village sets aside a time for celebration whether it be for the summer harvest, fishing season, a local saint, or the arrival of Spring.
Visitors are always welcome and urged to participate whether it be in dancing, sharing a cup of tea or just a friendly smile. A balmy summer evening under a magnificient starry sky is often the setting for these occasions.

The Saharian Festival is of special interest to those who dream of the vast expanse of dunes and sober beauty of the Sahara.
Douz; the gateway to the desert, offers an authentic and genuine picture of desert traditions, folk art and customs. The village itself, surrounded by sand dunes, is the departure point for the Mehares and Saharian safaris. A unique adventure awaits you.

The International Music Festival is held for long evenings in the El Jem Coliseum. An unforgetable experience of hearing the music of renowned artists and symphonic orchestras in the outstanding setting of the majestic Roman coliseum in a mild summer night.

List of Festivals in Tunisia

Festivals


When


Where
Yasmine Hammamet Festival

12 July
Hammamet
International Festival of Jazz

29 June-7 July
Tabarka
Falconry Festival

23-25 June
Haouaria
Thoroughbred Horse Festival

5-6-7-8 July
Meknassy (Sidi Bouzid)
International Festival of Carthage

12 July- 23 August
Tunis
International Festival of Hammamet

13 July - 22 August
Hammamet
International Festival of Sousse

14 July -18 August
Sousse
Ulysse Festival

17-25 July
Djerba
International Festival of Testour (Malouf)

17-31 July (35th edition)
Testour (Béja)
International Festival of Bizerta

14 July -17 August
Bizerta
Plastic Art festival

22 July - 6 August
Mahrès (Sfax)
International Festival of Dougga

15 July -5 August (25th edition)
Dougga
International Festival of Symphonic Music

14 July -11 August
El Jem (Mahdia)
Carthage-Byrsa Festival (exhibition)

15 July -15 September
Carthage
Nights of El Marsa

13 July- 18 August
La Marsa
Shopping

1 August 15 September
Tunis
Sahara Douz Festival

8-11 November
Douz
Oasis Festival

3-6 November
Tozeur
Tourism Saharan Day

12 November
Sud
Medina Festival

Ramadan
Tunis

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[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Tunisia has the finest collection of mosaics in the world and the majority of these can be seen at the Bardo Museum. This Moorish palace in the suburbs of Tunis was ,at one time, the residence of Tunisia's Beys (kings), and besides housing the fabulous exposition of mosaics, it contains an important collection of Prehistoric, Roman, Punic and Islamic artifacts.

Classified by region, Sousse, Carthage, Dougga, Bulla Regia the mosaics date mostly from the 3rd and 4th century - their golden age. Of particular interest is the unique portrait of Virgil, and in the Sousse Room, the Triumph of Neptune, one of the largest in existence.

Realistic scenes of hunting, a panorama of mythological gods and goddesses, exquisite still lifes of fish and games, the legendary Hercules and the adventurous Odysseus are portrayed with astonishing mastery of form and color. What marvelous skill it was of these unknown artists who used tiny chips of stone to create such beauty!


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The long and diversified history of Tunisia is displayed through its statues, bronzes, pottery and mosaics exposed in museums located at several archeological sites. From the prestigious Bardo Museum to the modest on-site selection, each brings to the visitor a particular vision of this country's rich historical heritage.

Of particular interest by period are the following sites and museums:
Prehistoric: Bardo (Tunis), Gafsa Museum , Metlaoui, regions of El Kef, Makthar.

Berber: Chennini, Tataouine, Tamerza, Matamata

Punic: Kerkouane, Carthage Museum, Bardo , Utica,
Salammbo Punic Ports

Roman: Carthage, Carthage Museum, Sousse Museum, Dougga, El Jem and its Museum, Bardo Museum, Bulla Regia and its Museum, Tabarka and its Museum

Islamic: Kairouan, Ra×××da Museum, Bardo Museum, Monastir and its Museum, Sousse Ribat and its Museum, Mahdia, Tozeur and its Museum, Tourbet Bey Tunis

Traditional Arts: Dar Abdallah Tunis, Tozeur Museum, Le Kef Museum, Monastir Museum Jerba: The Griba synagogue presumed 6th century BC (Fall of Jerusalem to Babylonians)

Houmt Souk Citadel: Dargouth the pirate's fort 15-16th century - Museum

Douz: Saharian Museum

[Iron Man]

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Bardo museum

* Closed :Mondays
* Hours :04/01-09/15 00-17:00
* Normal Hours 30-16:30
* Notes :Museum shop & ×××××××ment stand

The Bardo, located in the suburbs of Tunis, is in itself, an
architectural landmark. Originally a 13th century Hafside
palace, it has been restored and expanded throughout the
centuries to become this superb example of Arab-Moslem
17th and 18th century architecture and decoration with its vaulted ceilings, galleries and cupolas. How fitting also that the finest collection of Roman mosaics in the world should be housed in this delightful setting !.

Priceless acquisitions from all parts of the Tunisian territory
have been collected and arranged by date and place of origin
into departments corresponding to the main stages in Tunisia's history:

* Prehistoric era
* Carthaginian era
* Roman era
* Christian era
* Islamic era.


Let us begin from the beginning, with the exposition of the
Hermaion of El Guettar, a cairn of stone and silex estimated at over 40 000 years, and perhaps one of mankind's first spiritual and cultural expressions. Found in the area of Gafsa, northwestern Tunisia, it is one of a myriad of artifacts and vestiges, some strangely carved and faceted, testifying to man's early presence in Tunisia that are exposed in the Bardo's fine Prehistoric collection. We can date the end of the prehistoric era with the arrival of the Phoenicians around 1000 BC.

Here begins the familiar legends : Elyssa and Amilcar, Hannibal and his elephants, and Carthage the beautiful, destroyed and strewn with salt. In the many rooms dedicated to the Punic era the vast collection of fine statues and urns, grinning terra cotta masks and small glass paste amulets, stern faced funeral masks and precious jewelry invite us to linger and understand while we cannot forget the tragic images of the sacrifices carved in the funeral steles. The rooms of the Tophets, sanctuaries to Baal Ammon and Tanit, house these steles, with their symbols and strange inscriptions and those somber urns that hold the ashes of those sacrificed to these cruel gods. Through the art and sculpture of these carefully catalogued steles one can trace the evolution of these eastern Mediterranean peoples, from their arrival down through the centuries to their flowering as the citizens of the powerful Carthaginian empire. Although the destruction by the Romans obliterated much of their cities and temples, the Bardo has succeeded in gathering and preserving their long cultural history in Tunisia.



Moving forward we find the Roman presence in Tunisia
expressed and exhibited in the hundreds of mosaics adorning the walls and floor of the Bardo. Gathered from countless ancient sites these priceless images bear witness to the wealth and prosperity of Roman Tunisia, its gods and goddesses, myths and realities, day to day activities and exuberant festivities.

The Sousse Room displays the grandiose Triumph of Neptune, Oudna with an exquisite Venus at her bath, El Jem Room boasting of the Triumph of Baccus and the lovely Nine Muses and certainly the renowned Virgil writing the Eneide, the only known portrait of this great Roman poet, in the room that bears his name. How real are the hunting scenes with the snarling beasts, the richness of the marine mosaics , the sea teeming with life, the bountiful harvests, the brave Ulysses and the proud Diana the Huntress...all brought to life by these unknown masters of the ancient art.

The rooms of the Bardo dedicated to this prestigious collection are bathed in the splendor of the Mediterranean sunlight preserving their natural colors and hues. In addition to the mosaics, fine statues and urns, amphora and jewelry, add to our appreciation of the great artistry of these peoples of Roman Africa.



The Christian era appears in the mosaics around the later part of the 3rd century, with its themes taken from the Bible and including the symbolism of the New Testament. While the majority of mosaics and statuary are from Carthage, churches and chapels throughout Tunisia were decorated with mosaics and particularly fine images on grave stones.

The Early Christian rooms of the Bardo display a mosaic
baptismal immersion font in the shape of a Greek cross from a 6th century church in Cap Bon, while a cruciform marble font was found in Djerba.



Another page in the long cultural and artistic history of Tunisia is turned as the Bardo Museum brings us the Islamic Art collection, housed in the Hussein Palace. In the exquisitely decorated Harem Room is a collection of rare ancient fabrics and the elegant and harmonious inner courtyard opens to rooms holding a precious collection of medieval Islamic pottery and jewelry as well as beautiful illuminated pages from the sacred texts. Excelling in the decorative arts, finely wrought arabesques and intricate geometric pattern characterize much of Islamic artwork in wood, stucco and brass from the 16th to the 19th centuries.

Like all great museums, the Bardo answers many questions while awakening the desire to learn more about Tunisian history, as the departure point for travels to the various ancient Tunisian sites, Carthage, El Jem, Utica, Dougga, Kerkouane, Sousse , Kairouan, or as the culmination of a fascinating visit to this country of a long and rich cultural heritage



Carthage museum

* Hours :04/01-09/15 :00-19:00
* Normal Hours :30-17:30
* Notes :Punic and Roman Museums and archeological sites


The National Museum of Carthage located on the Byrsa Hill,
contains a most interesting Punic and Roman collection from marble sarcophagi to everyday household items as well as a model of Punic Carthage and the Roman Capitol and Tophet built on its ruins. Here again we find the curious Punic colored glass paste masks with their large protruding eyes and the clay masks designed to ward off the evil spirits as well as a lovely collection of jewelry.

The main ruins of Punic Carthage are here as well as in the
Carthage-Salambo area. It is believed that over 400,000
persons lived in this vast city surrounded by walls 13 meters
high. Today the view from the Byrsa hill overlooks the
modern Carthage ,the Punic Harbour, Tunis, and in the
distance the Bou Kournine mountain. Amid this
beauty it is hard to imagine the fall and destruction of Carthage in 146 BC.

".. for 17 days the city was in flames that devoured all, the
living and the dead and all that grew and once flourished...the land was cursed and strewn with salt and forbidden to all mankind henceforth. " One hundred years later the Romans returned and upon the ruins erected Roman Carthage with magnificent public buildings second only to Rome itself in importance and grandeur.

To the South of the Museum lies the Punic Quarter, an
ancient burial site, converted to an area of workshops and
houses. Excavations have shown the houses to be
in general two or three stories with indoor wells and cisterns.
Unfortunately even the ruins of the temple dedicated to
Eshmum were completely obliterated during the Roman
reconstruction.

To the east along the Rue Hannibal lies the Kothon- the Punic harbor -which ××××tered the mightiest fleet of the ancient Mediterranean. Composed of a commercial harbour which gave direct access to the sea through a narrow channel and a military harbour surrounded by a high wall.

The entrance could be sealed by an enormous chain . Recent excavations on the small island in the middle of the harbor from which the naval commander of the fleet directed and oversaw the operations, have revealed an incredible system of dry docking and slips. A fascinating model of the boathouse, shrine and docks is now completed. As excavations continue, the mastery with which Carthage, the "Queen of the Seas" ruled the Mediterranean will be further confirmed.

Further down the Rue Hannibal in a lovely shady garden is the Tophet dedicated to Baal Haamon. The aura of peace is
shattered by the view of row upon row, layer upon layer of
funeral steles and urns containing the ashes of sacrificed
children. The steles bear inscriptions in Punic, magical
symbols and stylized representations of gods. A model of the Tophet exists at the National Museum of Carthage. Human sacrifice was practiced in the early days of Carthage and continued into the 3rd century, although some experts believe that a sheep or veal was often substituted to a human child. However during times of war, plague or drought, the practice was revived . The sanctuary itself covers about 2 hectares and is riddled with shafts and layer upon layer of steles giving credence to the number of over 7000 sacrifices. A great controversy still rages over this practice as some scholars
believe the stories of child sacrifice to be an slanderous
invention of the Roman writers and much exaggerated.

Leave this gloomy site and explore the imposing ruins of
the Baths of Antonin ,known to be the largest in the Roman
world, beside that of Rome itself. Set against the blue
background of the Mediterranean the last of the eight colossal columns that supported the central room, gives us just a glimpse of the grandeur of these baths that covered almost 2 hectares. The nearby Archaeological Park demonstrates the Roman love of order with its rectangular grid of streets serving the residential quarter. This site is of a particular interest showing the successive layers of inhabitants with Punic graves, a Christian church, and a 7th century burial chapel , as well as rounded limestone projectiles from Carthaginian armories.

The Roman Theater dating from the 2nd century AD seated 5000 spectators and is still in use for the Cartage Festival held in July through August. On the hillside behind the theater, lies a Park containing the villas of wealthy Romans, one of which the Villa Des Voilieres has been restored with its elegant peristyle and fine mosaics.

A stroll through the area will reveal the extent of Carthage under the Romans. At La Malaga about 1 km northwest of Byrsa and near the road to Tunis, 24 enormous cisterns were built to hold the water brought by an aqueduct from Zaghouan 132 km away. Only 15 or so remain, yet their impressive size is again a testimony of the Roman genius for construction. Nearby the ruins of the Amphitheater - built in the 2nd century for over 50,000 spectators, it was the scene for the martyrdom of Christians in the 3rd century. Although only the underground rooms and a part of the foundations remain, they bear witness of its grandeur and magnitude


Dar Ben Abdallah



* Closed :Mondays
* Hours :04/01-09/15 30-16:30
* Normal Hours 30-16:30
* Notes :18th c. upper class home

The Museum of Traditional Arts and Customs, Tunis.

This museum is housed on the ground floor of an 18th-century palace, Dar Ben Abdallah, located in the heart of the medina (old city).

The palace includes three elements, a masters' house, where
the museum is located, the guests' house, containing the museum administration, and the common rooms.

Between 1801 and 1941, the palace served as a private dwelling. First transformed by the Directorate of Public Instruction and Fine Arts into the Bureau of Tunisian Arts, it
was taken over in 1964 by the State Secretariat for Cultural Affairs (Directorate of National Museums) and chosen to house the Center for Traditional Arts and Customs. In 1977, that center was transferred to Carthage, and the museum was opened in 1978.

The museum presents traditional arts and customs of the city of Tunis, exhibited in the traditional setting of the private flat and the spacious kitchen that form a network opening onto a large patio.

Each "apartment," or large room, shows some of the rites of passage between the important stages in a lifetime - birth, the education of children, circumcision, engagement and marriage - and at the same time illustrates the life style of a family of the Tunisian upper classes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The supports of the exhibition consist of furnishings (beds, benches, knick-knacks); human figures (reconstitutions of such ceremonial occasions as engagements and weddings); costumes; jewelry; women's toilet accessories (a constitution of a traditional Turkish bath); the kitchen (with traditional table service, copperware and ceramics); and the male child's education, through a reconstitution of a Koranic school (the kuttab).


El JAM MUSEUM

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Originally planned to house a large collection of mosaics discovered in 1960 and 1961, the El Jem Museum was completed and opened to the public in 1970, bringing to an end the extensive dispersion of the archeological remains from Thysdrus, that had until then been divided among the Bardo, Sousse and Sfax museums. Inspired by the design of a Roman house, the museum includes three large exhibition rooms and a reception area, surrounding a central courtyard with a garden and peristyle. It soon proved too small for the inexhaustible treasures of Roman Thysdrus, El Jem's illustrious predecessor, and one of the richest and most powerful cities of Roman Africa. The monuments of Thysdrus were among the finest in the empire, including one of the world's most majestic amphitheaters, a circus as large as that of Maxentius in Rome, and aristocratic dwellings luxuriously decorated with mosaics.
[El JEm Amphitheater]


In the gallery surrounding the courtyard are exhibited mosaics and fragmentary sculptures and inscriptions. The most remarkable among the mosaics are those with geometric plant motifs, which attained their finest expression in this region in the late second and early third centuries. The visitor's attention is also captured by a peacock fanning its tail and by many other figurative motifs. The site was entirely devoid of water, and two inscriptions celebrate the structures built to bring water to the ancient city. Terra cotta tiles of the Paleo-Christian era give an idea of the traditional work produced in the region.

The three large exhibition rooms contain showcases exhibiting many types of items: sculptures (Jupiter wearing a diadem, a trunk of Mercury, a Medusa's head, a lion's head, a young girl's head, a marble hand, a fragment of a face with the hair design bored into the stone); glassware (cups, goblets, bottles, tear-bottles, perfume vials); clear sigillate ceramics (vases, plates, etc.); terra cotta statuettes (numerous figurines of Venus, Eros and Psyche, a dog-shaped vase); many Roman and Paleo-Christian terra cotta lamps; coins; metal objects (a frying pan, a bronze mirror, handles, etc.). In these same rooms are also exhibited some marble statues, including one of Isis.

The principal treasure of the El Jem Museum is, however, its impressive collection of mosaics. Geometric motifs, flowers and figurative scenes stand out by their enormous diversity and by the skill with which they were executed: Orpheus charming the animals with his music; the triumph of Bacchus; the nine Muses; drunken Silenus; the spirit of the year; the four seasons; Dionysus as a child riding a tigress; wild animal fights - all are among the finest mosaics ever discovered in Tunisia, a they provide an excellent overview of the work of the School of Byzacenus (the southern half of the country).

The museum is currently being extended to accommodate the many mosaics that have been discovered more recently, as well as a large number of quite unique objects produced by the craftsmen of Thysdrus during the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD


Monastir Museum

The Ribat of Monastir. This is both a religious and a military monument built between the end of the 8th century and the 10th century and transformed into a vast citadel which is one of the largest military constructions of Islamic Tunisia.


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Uthina (Oudna). Uthina is thought to be one of the oldest colonies in Africa, since its creation (by veterans) dates back to the time of Augustus, although the site is in reality probably of Berber origin. It is located some 30 km south of Tunis, and the ruins extend over approximately 140 hectares. Worth a visit, a large amphitheater dating from the 2nd century AD, a theater, Roman villas which have yielded very fine mosaic floors (including those on exhibit in the Bardo Museum), private and public baths, large cisterns, and an important monument that may be identified as the capitol.


Ra×××da museum

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]


* Closed :Mondays
* Hours :04/01-09/15 30-16:30
* Normal Hours 30-16:30
* Notes :Islamic Museum and Shop

The Ra×××da Museum. This former presidential palace 10 km southwest of Kairouan near the archeological site of Ra×××da, now houses the largest museum of Islamic art in Tunisia.
It comprises: A ceramics room, distinguished by a varied collection of ceramics, mainly from digs on the sites of Ra×××da, 9th-century capital of the Aghlabids, and Sabra al-Mansuriyya, capital of the Fatimids and the Zirids between the 10th and 11th centuries. The exhibit is enhanced by some very fine examples of Egyptian and Syrian ceramics.

The medals room, where an exhaustive collection of Islamic coins in Tunisia makes it possible to follow their development and typology over more than a thousand years.

The bronze and glass room, exhibiting the chandeliers that formerly illuminated the prayer hall of the Great Mosque of Kairouan, dating from the 10th and 11th centuries. This rare collection includes the famous chandelier of the prince Al-Moez Ibn Badis. Also exhibited in this room is a fine collection of glass pieces from Sabra.

The manuscripts room, containing an exhibit of the finest specimens of the Koran, written on parchment (particularly the well-known blue parchment), originally from the Great Mosque of Kairouan. In viewing this collection, the visitor can follow the development of Kufic writing, and of book-manufacturing techniques in Tunisia in the Middle Ages.


Sousse museum

* Closed :Mondays
* Hours :04/01-09/15 :00-12:00 _ 15:00-19:00
* Normal Hours 00-12:00 _ 14:00-18:00
* Notes :In the Kasbah of Sousse. Shop, ×××××××ments

The lovely "Pearl of the Sahel" noted for its beaches and hotels, Sousse is also famous for the wealth of its archeological treasures in both Islamic and Punic/Roman Museums. The latter holds the largest collection of antiquities after the Bardo National Museum.

The museum of Sousse is located in the 9th century Khalef al Fata tower in the kasbah. On entering, the spellbinding Head of Medusa seems to hold your gaze, and the Phoenician sea-god Hadad, patron of sailors is symbolic of Mediterranean sealife.

Around a small courtyard garden, arcades and various rooms contain choice mosaics from both nearby Christian catacombs, Roman country houses and Punic steles dedicated to Tanit. Sousse also boasts over 5 kilometers of remarkably preserved catacombs with their funeral galleries and marble tombs, the "Bon Pasteur" section is open while others are under restoration.

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[Iron Man]

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[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Whatever the season, your first glimpse of Tunisia will be one of golden beaches and a deep blue sea. With over 1200 kilometers of coast this sunny Mediterranean land is a paradise for the vacationer.

Well known seaside resort areas - Sousse, Monastir, Hammamet and Nabeul, Djerba and Tabarka offer their visitors the finest sand beaches and crystalline water along with a dizzying choice of waterfront hotels featuring sun and sea sports as windsurfing and sailing, underwater sightseeing, fishing and short boat rides. [Beach Scene]Nearly Hotels are built with the visitor's comfort and enjoyment in mind and their restaurants feature both international as well as Tunisian Cuisine. During the peak summer season no effort is spared to provide the maximum of activities at the hotel and throughout the region .Summer festivals held nearby invite you join in with your Tunisian hosts to celebrate Father Neptune, share their local folklore, enjoy a concert or or just have fun.


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[Eating out]Feeling guilty about the long lazy days spent in delicious idleness bronzing on the beach? Often an hours drive from these modern resorts will bring you to another Tunisia, one of ancient Roman, Arab, Berber or Phoenician sites. Reminders of this rich historical past abound and visitors will return again and again captivated by the diversity of this Mediterranean land. Ask at your hotel for guided tours and information .The Tunisian Tourist offices in most European capitals or in all major cities in Tunisia can supply a list of Guides, maps, brochures, and advice to help you plan an unforgettable vacation.

Bizerte

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Hippo Diarrhytus (Roman), Benzert (Arabic), Bizerte (French).

LOCATION AND ACCESS: Chief town of the governorate, on the north-east coast of Tunisia, 65 km north-west of Tunis, 136km north east ofTabarka. Direct trains from Tunis, or from Tabarka via Mateur. Tunis-Carthage airport. Tunis Air, 76 avenue Habib Bourguiba (te1. 432-201).

DIALING CODE: 02.

ACCOMMODATION: SeeHotels Interactive Guide.

TOURIST INFORMATION: Commissariat Regional au Tourisme. 1, rue de Constantinople, tel: 432-897, 432-703.

SOUVENIRS: Carpets, wrought iron, statuettes and pottery, olive tree wood objects, jewelery.

TRAVEL AGENTS: Via Bizerte. avenue d'Alger (tel. 432-901), Tourafric., avenue Habib Bourguiba (tel. 432-315), Tunisia Line Service, rue Ibn Khaldoun (tel. 431-944), Transtours, 7 rue d'Alger (tel. 432-174), International Voyages Services, avenue Habib Bourguib (tel. 432-885).

[BizerteEl Jem]AMENITIES: Post office (PTT, av. d'Algerie, rue el Medda, place Pasteur), banks (BCT, BNT, STB, UIB, UBCI, BS, ATB, BH), pharmacies, hospital, service stations, market, various shops, car hire (Hertz, place des Martyrs, tel. 433-679).

Carthage

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Deformation of "Kart Hadasht" ("the new town"), the name used by the Phoenicians in the 9th century B.C.

LOCATION AND ACCESS: In the outskirts of
Tunis (15 km north of the capital), on the Gulf of Tunis. Excellent paved roads from Tunis to Carthage. International Tunis-Carthage airport used by the major international airline companies.
DIALING CODE: 01.
ACCOMMODATION: Several hotels (see Hotels Listing)

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]


[Hannibal]Who has not heard of Hannibal and this city who dared brave the might of Rome? Now the ruins of both these great empires lay open to the sun and wildflowers. Declared a national monument the town of Carthage and nearby Salammbo abound in vestiges of the Punic and Roman empires, baths, dwellings, temples, shrines and the fabulous naval port of the Carthaginians.
[Carthage]The hill of Byrsa, where in the 8th century BC, Carthage was founded by the legendary Princess Elissa-Dido, is a storehouse of history .Newly restaured, the former cathedral of Saint Louis, which crowns the hill is now a cultural center and the nearby nationalmuseum of Carthage holds an impressive collection of Punic statues, steles and urns . How strange that this breathtakingly beautiful site should have been the theater of such violence, as a Roman historian wrote of the fall of Carthage "the city was then razed and burnt to the ground and the accursed land covered with salt to ensure its barrenness."

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

For a thousand years, Phoenicians were masters of the Mediterranean and over 200 war ships and innumerable merchant vessels were ××××tered in the nearby port of Salammbo. At its center the Admirals island still exists and archeologists are reconstituting the pavilion with its shrine and docks. Next to the ports the ancient sanctuary of the goddess Tanit (Tophet) a quiet, shady square of hundreds of funeral steles.


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]
[roman baths]

The Romans returned to Carthage and built on its ruins a new Carthage resplendent with great buildings, theaters, villas and baths. Carthage became the administrative capital for Africa and its importance can be seen in the Antoinine Thermal baths, one of the largest built under the Roman empire with the "cool room" an amazing 47 meters long and 15 meters high. The Roman theater is still used today for the summer festival of Carthage.

JERBA


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]


NAME: Jerba or Djerba (Arabic), Meninx (Phoenician).
LOCATION AND ACCESS: The Isle of Djerba is situated in the south-east of Tunisia on the Gulf of Gabes. Its capital Houmt Souk is located 108km east of Gabes, 326 km east of Tozeur and the chott el Jerid, 245 km south of Sfax, 372 km south of Sousse, 513 km south of Tunis. Excellent surfaced roads. Ferry at Ajim (fee paying; every 15 mns in the tourist season). International airport on north-west of the island (tel. 650-223).
DIALING CODE: 05.
HOTELS: A large number of hotels, holiday clubs, boarding houses, etc. (see Hotels Interactive Guide).
RESTAURANTS: Haroun (fish and seafood specialities), Houmt Souk port (tel. 650-488); Les Flamants roses, ile des Flamants roses (swimiming in the sea and boat trips, tel. 650-488).
SOUVENIRS: Craft goods (pottery, carpets, jewelery, perfumes), and sponges, in the Midoun souks, in Homnt Souk and in the hotel boutiques.
LEISURE: Karts Handermann and Hafez (near to the Djerba lighthouse).
TOURIST INFORMATION: Commissariat général au tourisme. Houmt Souk (tel. 650-016/ 581/544). Syndicat d'initiative. Houmt Souk (tel. 650-915). Syndicat d'initiative, Midoun (tel. 657-114).
AMENITIES: Banks (ATB, BS, BNT, BT, BIAT, CFCT, STB, UIB) in Midoun and Houmt Souk, regional hospital in Houmt Souk, hospital in Midoun, pharmacies, food stores, service stations, restaurants, markets (Midoun and Houmt Souk souks), car hire (Hertz, place Mongi Bali in Houmt Souk, tel. 650-196; Djerba-Melita airport post 8, tel. 650-233; Dar Jerba, tel. 657-158).


An island of ten thousand palm trees rising from the sea like a mirage. This Polynesia of the Mediterranean is ringed by miles of fine sandy beaches and luxury hotels, ultra modern or built in the fashion of the traditional Djerbian "menzel", stand ready to welcome the traveller.

Splendid in its diversity Djerba offers a variety of sea sports, Roman sites and a pirates castle, the ancient synagogue of the Griba , and the fortress like mosques , potters and silversmiths still faithful to the art of their craft, the bustle of the open air markets. Discover the shady gardens of the interior, orchards of fig, apple and pomegranate, wander through groves of olive trees, gnarled trunks bearing witness to the centuries past.

Restaurants throughout this island serve seafood famed for its freshness and traditional dishes that can be savored on shady patios or on cool waterside patios.

The magnificent weather, clement in winter, warm in summer lends itself to a variety of sports and activities, sail to the island of the pink Flamingo, windsurf year round or tour the island by bicycle in the Spring and Fall.

Hospitable and friendly Djerba welcomes you to participate in its festivals - watch the "Gougou" dancers in Midoun, join a wedding procession following the bride hidden high on a camel and preceded by the joyous music of tambourines and flutes. Steal a few precious moments to share the splendor of a Mediterranean sunset with fishermen casting their nets. ×××××××ed and relaxed return again and again.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

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DOUGGA

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Thugga (Punic).
LOCATION AND ACCESS:
110 km south-west of Tunis via the RN 5,
72km east of Kef, 8 km from Teboursouk.
DIALING CODE: 08.
ACCOMMODATION:
In Téboursouk (seeHotels Interactive Guide).

Bulla Regia and Dougga in Northern Tunisia evidence, in two very different ways, Roman presence in this agricultural region. At first sight Bulla Regia is disappointing, no great temples, arches or monuments mark the site, but don't drive on! Approaching the ruins, one is suddenly aware that part of the houses and baths are below your feet. In order to remain comfortable in the summer heat, houses were built with a winter apartment on ground floor and summer quarters underground with hollow air- pipes built into the walls. Light was provided by windows in the top floor and unlike sober Matmata, rich mosaics graced the floors. Unique testimony to the genius of the builders of the Coliseum and the aqueducts! Nearby is a small but interesting little museum.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Dougga is all that one dreams a Roman site should be. Grandiose temples and theaters, forum and markets stand in remarkable repair on a mountainside overlooking wheat fields and valley. Imposing Dougga spreads over 65 hectares, its position on the slopes forced Roman builders to renounce their standard city plan and adapt their monuments to the terrain.

The Capitol is certainly one of the most beautiful built by the Romans in Tunisia. Some 20 to 30,000 persons lived here and their shops, stores and baths, latrines, wash room and gymnasiums bring them to life. Stone streets bear the grooves of chariot wheels and in the silent, wind swept afternoon one can almost hear their clatter. Dougga was a prosperous city even before the coming of the Romans.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

A Lybico - Punic tower from the 2nd century BC stands 21 meters high at the edge of the town, once ornamented by a stele bearing the names of its builders and Numidian princes were believed to have resided here. Dougga or Thugga is perhaps among the most touching of the 200 or more Roman sites in Tunisia as one cannot help the feeling it stands, like the Ksours, waiting for the peoples who will never return. A must for archeology buffs and a delight for all.

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EL JEM

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Thysdrus (Punic).
LOCATION AND ACCESS: 205 km south-east of Tunis, 63 km south of Sousse, 64 km norfh of Sfax.
DIALING CODE: 04.
TOURIST INFORMATION: Relais Julius (30 beds, pool).
AMENITIES: Post office, service stations, shops.
SOUVENIRS: Carpets, jewellery, antiques (Soussi Brothers shops, near the Colisseum).

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

El Jem was no doubt a thriving Roman agricultural region producing both olive oil and wheat and the grandiose colosseum, second only in size to that of Rome itself, attests to its wealth. Arriving at this small city from Sousse or Sfax, the sight of this amphitheater rising in the distance like a Colossus is both wondrous and slightly strange as the present surroundings give no hint of its former importance.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Built around the year 200, it was the scene of those games and circuses, often cruel and bloody , provided by ancient Rome. Today, the cries of martyrs and beasts have been replaced by the haunting strains of a concerto or the precise beauty of a fugue as world famous orchestras and artists perform at the classical music festival held at the colosseum each summer.

El Jem has opened workshops where artists are re-discovering the art of mosaics and their creations are truly worthy of this site and its history. You can compare these artworks with those in the museum by the colosseum.


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Hammamet

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Siagu (Roman).
LOCATION AND ACCESS: South of the Cap Bon peninsula, 10 km south-west of Nabeul, 64km south of Tunis by motorway, 85 km north of Sousse by motorway. Railway station: routes to Tunis and Sousse.
DIALING CODE: 02.
TOURIST INFORMATION: ONTT (Office National du Tourisme Tunisien). av. H. Bourguiba, tel. 280 423.
ACCOMMODATION: See Hotels Interactive Guide.
LEISURE: Pool, tennis courts, beaches, water skiing, golf, horse riding, thalassotherapy (at the Sol Azur hotel).
FESTIVALS: International festival (July-August at the International Cultural Centre, av. des Nations-Unies, tel. 280-030).
SOUVENIRS: Carpets, perfumes, pottery, embroidery.
AMENITIES: Post office (av. de la République), service stations, car hire (Hertz, av. des Hotels, tel. 280-187), dispensary, pharmacies, shops, shopping centre, market (on Thursdays), bank.


For visitors and Tunisians alike Hammamet is another word for vacations and its ritual of sun bathing on spotless beaches, the gasp of cool water on bronzed skin, dinner on the patio of a beachfront hotel , midnight swims, discos and watching the sun rise in the mirror of the sea.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Hammamet, the "Tunisian Saint Tropez", is all this and more. Its a way of life, taking the time to relax , meet old friends and make new ones.It's fishermen in brightly painted boats setting out at dawn, the medina surrounded by its ramparts and crowned by an ancient fort overlooking the sea, fashionable boutiques where resplendent traditional tunics and caftans rival the shimmering sun.
[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The Gulf of Hammamet ××××ters miles of fine sandy beaches, sparkling seas and modern hotels dedicated to the comfort a well being of their guests. A variety of sea sports, folklore, exhibitions, festivals and amusements are provided for an memorable vacation.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

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[Iron Man]

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kAIROUAN

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Kairouan (the "fortified town" in Arabic).
LOCATION AND ACCESS: Chief town of the governorate, 160 km south of Tunis, 67 km south of Sousse.
DIALING CODE: 07.
ACCOMMODATION: See Hotels Listing.
TOURIST INFORMATION: Syndicat d ' Initiative, place du Commandant Mohamed el Bejaoui, tel. 220-452.
AMENITIES: Post office, banks, service stations, shops.
SOUVENIRS: Typical Kairouan carpets, Brass work, Leather goods.

An hour drive from Sousse, discover Kairouan "the city of 50 mosques" . The spiritual home of all Tunisians, the city itself rises like a dream of ocher and tawny beige, serene in its 13 centuries of Islamic culture, authentic and proud of the wondrous beauty of its mosques, the symphony of its columns and arches, the exquisite delicacy of the stone work. The towering and sober dignity of the Great Mosque seems to embody the spirituality that has inspired artists and poets from its creation until the present day.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Dating from the 9th century its austere beauty dominates the entire city. Inside, visitors can wonder at the exquisite elegance of the wood carved doors and stucco arabesques, as well as the forest of columns (400) of the prayer room with their Phoenician, Roman and Arabic capitals.

The medina, with its imposing walls and monumental gates encloses lovely mosques, an ancient well and hundreds of shops where world famous Kairouan carpets of pure wool are woven and sold and where the visitor can admire the handicrafts of artisans in copper, leather, and in the traditional jebba and burnous, ornate and richly adorned or elegantly natural . The artisanat Center provides an excellent exhibit on carpets and carpet weaving and visitors who may be thinking of buying a carpet are welcome to consult the Tunisian National Handicrafts Organization or Artisanat ,as it is familiarly called, for advice on quality, prices, styles, care and shipping their carpet home.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

As Kairouan is the oldest and most renowned carpet center in Tunisia, the selection is enormous .Undoubtedly the hand knotted pile carpet reigns supreme with the typical design of Kairouan, Alloucha, being of natural wool colors with a large border of parallel stripes of geometric patterns and a central lozenge with a floral design. However, the creativity and artistry of the weavers embroiders this basic scheme with a infinite variety of patterns and colors creating a masterpiece of harmony and elegance.

Carpets are graded by their fineness ,the number of knots in a square meter ,with a normal weave from 10,000 to 40,000, fine weave from 65,000-90,000 and extra fine from 160,000 - 500,000. Silk carpets may be over 500,000 knots per square meter.

Kairouan also produces a woven carpet the margoum, using mainly geometric Berber designs, lighter in weight and in a multitude of colors.

Tunisian craftsmen have explored ,with outstanding success, a blending of traditional Tunisian patterns with modern designs creating a new line of knotted carpets to satisfy more modern tastes.

Justly proud of the excellence of its carpets Tunisia has established a strict quality control and only those that satisfy the high standards are given the coveted label with the seal of the Tunisian Republic and information on the date, size, fineness, of the carpet. It is your guarantee of excellence. Unless you are an experienced carpet buyer, or have purchased an antique carpet, best rely on this label of quality.

Kairouan is also noted for its brasswork, intricately designed trays, vases and bowels, embossed or engraved as well as leatherwork ranging from camel saddles to fine slippers.


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KSOURS

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Lonely and imperious stone castles still stand guard over deserted villages. Clinging to the craggy mountain ridges, ksours and empty ghorfas await the return of the Berber people who sought protection behind their ocher walls and who stored their precious grain in the honeycomb like granaries. Most of the ksours are now abandoned or inhabited only by old people but some happily have found a new vocation as elements of hotels, like the Ksar Haddada near Ghomrassen.


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Leaving the town of Tataouine with its modern,comfortable accommodations visitors can tour the region stopping at Ksar Ezzara, Douiret and Chennini. On the road passing Douiret visit a citadel that seems to be an integral part of the mountain, still in use for storage by the villagers now located in the valley. Further on ,the Ksar of Chenini lies deserted, its crumbling walls high on the cliff tops no longer guard the villagers. Here, next to the rough squat stone mosque lies the tomb of the seven sleepers. According to the legend seven young girls slept for two hundred years and awakened only to find all they had loved had long vanished, so they died heartbroken. Perhaps this is the fate of the lonely ksars.


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MAHDIA

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: "Town of the Mahdi" (in Arabic).
LOCATION AND ACCESS: On the eastern coast of the Mediterranean, 200 km south of Tunis, 60 km south-east of Sousse. Railway station.
DIALING CODE: 03.
ACCOMMODATION: SeeHotels Interactive Guide.
AMENITIES: Post office, pharmacies, food store, numerous travel agents, banks.
RESTAURANTS: L'Espadon, Neptune, Le Lido, Le Quai. (see Restaurants Interactive Guide).

Tucked away like a precious jewel between Sousse and Sfax, this lovely port modestly conceals its prestigious and adventurous past. Proclaimed the capital of Tunisia in 921, Mahdia was long the center of a power struggle between the Caliph of Cairo and local sovereigns. Repeatedly attacked by nomads, Genoese navies, Sicilian troops, liberated by the Berbers, Mahdia became a headquarters for the pirates of Dargouth and battles with Spanish and Maltese knights.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The Central Mosque, austere and sober dates from the 10th century and the entrance to the Medina is through an enormous 16th century gate. Wandering through the old city visitors can see the vestiges of the ancient ramparts and fortress, visit the "Cape Africa" lighthouse and hauntingly beautiful sailors cemetery.

Mahdia of today is that of the fisherman mending his nets and the silk weavers in the Rue Sidi Jaber. A few kilometers from the town itself a myriad of modern first class hotels offer visitors one of the finest beaches in Tunisia.

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MATMATA

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Matmata is the name of a Berber tribe which was later given to the town.
LOCATION AND ACCESS: 450 km south of Tunis, 43 km south of Gabes, 60 km west of Medenine.
DIALING CODE: 05.
ACCOMMODATION: SeeHotels Guide.
AMENITIES: Post office, service stations, shops.
TOURIST INFORMATION: Syndicat d 'Initiative.
SOUVENIRS: Berber carpets.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

From the splendor of the high citadel of Ksar Jouma which overlooks the entire region ,follow the rocky trails down to the arid, sun baked region of Matmata where craters dug into the ground provided another type of ××××ter from invaders.

These troglodyte "homes" consist of a courtyard, 5 to 10 meters deep from which a labyrinth of small rooms for sleeping, grain storage and family gatherings are cut into the soft rock and interconnected by narrow passageways. Access is through a sloping tunnel or by a ladder which could be removed in time of danger.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The interiors are whitewashed and quite cool in summer, indeed there are now hotels installed in these craters which visitors will find amazingly comfortable. Should the landscape look strangely familiar, Matmata was the setting for the film "Star Wars". This village, named after the Berber tribe that inhabits the region is the largest of the troglodyte communities.

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MONASTIR

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: From the French " monastère", or " monastery").
LOCATION AND ACCESS: 165 km south-east of Tunis, 24 km east of Sousse, 80 km east of Kairouan. Railway station at Sousse. Skanès -Monastir international airport, tel. 261-314.

DIALING CODE: 03.
ACCOMMODATION: See Hotels Listing.

RESTAURANTS: Le Grill, le Chandelier, le Central, la Rosa, le Captain, Calypso Panorama King's, Le Rempart. See also Restaurants Listing.

AMENITIES: Post office, various shops, pharmacies, hospital, coach station, service stations, car hire (Hertz, airport post n, tel. 261-314), numerous travel agents, congress building, banks.

TOURIST INFORMATION: Commissariat regional au tourisme in Skanès (tel. 461 205 or 089, 462894), at airport (tel. 4630216).

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Monastir, 9th century walls and an imposing Ribat tower over a modern resort complex and the result is amazingly harmonious. Monastir captures that blend of the traditional and modern that characterizes Tunisia. A marina nestled in the shade of the walls provides a enjoyable promenade as does the long avenue that offers the bluest of Mediterranean seas on one side and open air terraces of Hotels, restaurants and coffee houses from where you can enjoy the view.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The "monastery" after which the town was named, was built by an Islamic religious order in 797 to defend the town from roaming nomadic tribes and Byzantine warships. The fortress houses a lovely museum of Islamic art and artifacts.


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NABEUL

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: From the Roman Neapolis (also the root of the the name Naples in Italy).

LOCATION AND ACCESS: On the south coast near to the Cap Bon peninsula. 67 km south-east of Tunis by motorway (as far as Hammamet) and by road, 10 km north-east of Hammamet. Railway station (Tunis libre).

DIALING CODE: 02. TOURIST BOARD: ONTT (Office National du Tourisme Tunisien), av. Taieb Mehiri, tel. 286-800 or 737.
ACCOMMODATION: SeeHotels Interactive Guide.

SOUVENIRS: Ceramic goods, mats, embroidery, woven rugs and covers, orange flower water. Boutiques and "Office national de l'artisanat" shop on av. Habib Thameur.

FESTIVALS: Orange flower festival (end March, beginning April), summer festival.

AMENITIES: Post office, hospital, pharmacies, shops, market (Friday mornings), car hire (Hertz. av. Habib Thameur, tel. 285-327), banks.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]
Near to Hammamet the town of Nabeul offers a authentic view of the art of pottery and ceramics. Visitors can watch as the potter's wheel spins out a work of art and admire the range of talents of these artisans who create the modern and sophisticated with the same definite touch as the traditional Tunisian ceramics.

Nabeul hosts a Friday market, once famous for camel traiding , with a variety of local products, as well as the orange blossom festival held each year in April. A small but interesting museum houses both Punic and Roman artifacts.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

2 Km away is Dar Chaabane, a village noted for its stone carvers. It is just an hours drive to Tunis where day excursions will introduce visitors to this capital rich in history, its ancient medina with fabulous souks, prestigious suburbs of Carthage, Sidi Bou Said ,the museum of Bardo with its world famous mosaics alongside the bustling vitality of a modern city.


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NEFTA

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Aggasel Nepte (Roman).
LOCATION AND ACCESS: 23 km west of Tozeur, 116 km south-west of Gafsa 112 km west of Kebili and 233 km west of Gabés. Tozeur international airport.
DIALING CODE: 05.
ACCOMMODATION: SeeHotels Listing.
AMENITIES: Post office, service stations, shops, pharmacies, hospital, banks.
TOURIST INFORMATION: Syndicat d'initiative, avenue Bourguiba, tel. 457 184.
SOUVENIRS: Carpets, minerals.

Nefta, just a few kilometers from Tozeur, spreads out like a green carpet on a stark and harsh plateau eroded by sandstorms. Here one can truly imagine the utter joy of the Saharian traveler as he beholds this pearl of the Djerid on the horizon. Hundreds of thousands of palms and fruit trees thrive in the blessings of hundreds of springs. At the northern end of this lovely oasis lies the principal spring with gently running waters and a breathtaking view of the oasis.



Kebili on the eastern side of the Chott, is a cluster of villages, the largest of the desert oases. Here begins the vast ocean of sands, the silence and the mystery that urges you on further to Douz. Douz ,where the dunes stretch on and on reminding us of the frailty of our defenses against this great expanse of sand.

The village ,gateway to the Sahara, clings proudly to its traditions and during the Sahara Festival in December extends a welcome to visitors to share the excitement of the camel races and fantasias - Arab horsemen racing their richly adorned desert thoroughbreds over the sands, Berber songs and dances, traditional marriage ceremonies and the famous desert-bred "Slougui" (Greyhound) races.

DOUZ

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

LOCATION AND ACCESS: Oasis near to the chott el Djerid, 55 km south of Tunis via Gabes, 117 km east of Tozeur, 132 km south of Gafsa.
DIALING CODE: 06.
TOURIST INFORMATION: Syndicat d'initiative. place de la Republique, tel. 490-930 or 940.
ACCOMMODATION: See Hotels Interactive Guide.
AMENITIES: Post office, shops, service stations, banks.
SOUVENIRS: Carpets, minerals (gypsum flowers), stuffed animals, dates.
FESTIVALS: Douz Sahara Festival (December).

Long before its "discovery" by visitors Douz has been the outpost of the desert and each Thursday, the market day, nomads arrive for the customary trading and barter of camels, horses, bringing crafts, minerals "desert roses", woven blankets, richly adorned saddles and silver Berber jewelry. From here the Saharan safaris and meharees depart for the Great Erg Oriental in the Tunisian Sahara. For a memorable and genuine experience of desert life specialized tourist agencies and Douz Voyages offer a week long safari on camel back and on foot.

..

[Iron Man]

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SIDI BOU SAID


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Abbreviation of the Muslim saint's name who lived here. His full name was Abou Said ibn Khalef ibn Yahia Ettamini el Beji.
LOCATION AND ACCESS: 20 km north-east of Tunis.
DIALING CODE: 01.
ACCOMMODATION: See Hotels Interactive Guide.
FESTIVALS: Kharja, religious festival in honour of Sidi Bou Said (July).
SOUVENIRS: Carpets, pottery, bird cages, perfumes.


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]


Sidi Bou Said this lovely blue and white village, gaily perched on the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Tunis, is perhaps the most cherished in Tunisia. The legend tells of Saint Louis - coming to wage war he fell in love with a Berber princess and, changing his name became the patron saint of this village where he lived in joy and peace. Visit Sidi Bou Said, fall under its charm and the story will seem most logical.

Following the cobblestone streets winding upwards, visitors will catch glimpses of the emerald sea with the mountain of Bou Kornine and the southern beaches of Tunis across the Bay. Sit and sip a green tea with mint at the "Café des Nattes" or continue upwards to the "lighthouse" and the fabulous view from "Sidi Chebaane" café. During the warm summer evenings concerts of traditional Tunisian music, malouf, attract visitors and Tunisians alike.


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The former palace of Baron d'Erlanger has been converted into a museum and visitors can marvel at the princely splendor of this Arabian Nights "Palace of the Star of Venus". Small shops offer antiques,Tunisian handicrafts, lovely silver jewelry and the art gallery exhibits works of both Tunisian and international artists. At the foot of the cliffs lies the Port of Sidi Bou Said, a modern marina with restaurants and hotels. Finish your tour with a visit to La Marsa and Gammarth, nearby elegant beachside suburbs that come alive in the summer with joyous bands of liberated youth, and don't miss the "Café Saf-Saf" in La Marsa where a snow white camel draws water from a artisan well.

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SOUSSE

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Hadrumete (Punic), Colonia Ulpia Trajana Augusta Frugifera Hadrumetina (Roman), Harinicopolis (Vandal), Justiniano (Byzantine), Soussa (Arabic).

LOCATION AND ACCESS: Chief town of governorate. 140km south of Tunis, 127 km north of Sfax, 57km east of Kairouan. Railway sta-tion (tel. 221 955). Skanes-Monastir international airport (tel. 260-300).

DIALING CODE: 03.
ACCOMMODATION: SeeHotels Listing.

TOURIST INFORMATION: Commissariat régional au tourisme, avenue Bourguiba, tel. 225-157 / 225-158 / 225-159. Office national de tourisme tunisien, the Port el Kantaoui marina (tel. 241 799). Syndicat d'initiative, place Sidi Yahia.

SOUVENIRS: Carpets and dyed cloth, porce-lain, traditional furniture (caskets), copper goods, leather bags, jewellery, olive oil.

AMENITIES: Market, shops, pharmacies, post office (av. de la Republique, tel. 24750). Two hospitals: CHU Farat Hached, rue Ibn El Jaz-zar, tel. 221 411 and CHU of Hammam Sousse, tel. 241 411 and a clinic (les Oliviers, tel. 242711). Car hire (Hertz, av. Bourguiba, tel. 225428). Tunis Air (av. Bourguiba, tel. 227955) and numerous travel agents.

FESTIVALS: Sousse international festival (July-August), Mediterranean olive tree festi-val (in Kalaa Debira, December), Sidi El Kantaoui festival (in Hammam Sousse, July).

On the eastern coast of Tunisia, two hours from the capital Tunis lies Sousse, "the pearl of the Sahel" . The mildness of its climate, its calm and beautiful coast and the hospitality of its people have long captivated those who came to conquer. Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines and Arabs settled in this lovely "fertile city" each leaving their imprint and heritage. No wonder modern day visitors from all over the world find themselves at home and return again and again.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The resort area of Sousse is perfectly integrated into the city and the visitor welcomed to participate in its exuberance. Proud of its heritage, museums and monuments are accessible and opened with pleasure to its guests and the Medina with its tiny colorful shops overflowing with silver jewelry, pure wool blankets, copper and carpets bustle with activity under the towering walls of the ribat.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]


EL KANTAOUI

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The hotels that line the beachfront extend from the Sousse itself along miles of sparkling clean sea to the Port El Kantaoui. This complex includes a modern marina equipped for over 300 boats, an 18 hole golf course as well as a full array of sports from water skiing to riding, in a village-like setting.

The charm of this white and blue Tunisian style village with its perfectly reproduced medina, never fails to enchant, lending itself to an afternoon stroll through the cobblestone streets to window shop, admire the boats moored in the marina or a ×××××××ing pause at one of the sidewalk cafes. The two story residential appartments that ring the marina observe the same architectural style creating a peaceful and pleasing harmony.

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SOUTH

NAMES: Ad Turres (Roman) for Tamerza, Ad Speculum (Roman) for Chebika and Madés (Roman) for Midés.

LOCATION AND ACCESS: In south-western Tunisia (Djérid region), 65 km north-west of Tozeur, 95 km west of Gafsa. Railway stations at Gafsa and Tozeur. Tozeur international airport.
DIALING CODE: 06.

TOURIST INFORMATION: In Tozeur, Commissariat régional au tourisme, avenue Abou el Kacem Chebbi, tel. 250-503 / 250-088.
ACCOMMODATION: See Hotels Listing.
FESTIVALS: Tamerza festival (April-May).
SOUVENIRS: Carpets, minerals.

[Sahara]On your way south, beyond Sousse and Kairouan, subtle changes in the land and color soon become apparent. The olive groves grow sparse, the land takes on shades of ocher and buff, jagged outlines of mountains appear in the horizon. Date palms and tawny rocks, the road seems endless when at last Gafsa appears. First of the great date palm oases , Gafsa is also an ancient prehistoric site.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[Sahara]Return to the present and discover the weaving shops where the carpets are made, brightly colored ,figurative in a wonderful naive style . From the top of a minaret view the whole oases of a hundred thousand date palms and the orchards of apricot and lemon trees. In the center of town, the Roman pools are the delight of children and a nearby small museum exposes a exquisite collection of Roman mosaics. ×××××××ed, continue on to Metlaoui, where the "Red Lizard" a small train once belonging to Tunisia's beys leaves for a trip through the superb gorges of Selja. Continue to the mountain oases...

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[Hotel]Chebika ,a small earthen village with its palm trees and mini waterfalls lying at the foot and slopes of the Djebel el Negueb was once a Roman outpost and one of the mountain refuges of the Berber peoples. From here up a steep winding road ,lies Tamerza another refuge which gives a breathtaking view of the region with its salt lakes and river gorges.The ancient town, destroyed by floods in 1969, was rebuilt and from the terrace of a modern hotel , constructed on the top of a canyon one can view this lost village dating from Roman times. Tamerza is the site of a Festival gathering the inhabitants of the mountain oases and where Berber arts, traditions, folklore and music can be enjoyed.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[Mides]A few kilometers away Midés , still relatively "undiscovered" is the last and most fascinating of these oases refuges. The gorges have been sculpted by the river torrents and vast monuments carved in a myriad of shapes. Guides will lead visitors through the trails of this wild and once impregnable earthen citadel . As in Tamerza, floods destroyed the old village and a new one was built higher up.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The palm groves and gardens, as well as a small market place lie at the foot of a plateau on the mountain. Natural springs spurting from the rocks create the waterfalls and irrigate these unusual mountain oases.

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TABARKA

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Thabraca (Phoenician).
LOCATION AND ACCESS: In north-western Tunisia, 170 km from Tunis via Mateur.
DIALING CODE: 08.
ACCOMMODATION: see Hotels Listing.
AMENITIES: Post office, service stations, shops, car hire (Hertz, résidence Corallo, tel. 644-570).
SOUVENIRS: Carpets, cork and olive wood goods, coral jewellery, Sejnane terracotta pottery and statuettes.
TOURIST INFO.: Comissariat regional au tourisme, 32 avenue Bourguiba, tel. 644-491.
FESTIVALS: Coral Festival (July-August).

A Pine and mimosa covered mountain gentle slopes to the sea where bays of fine sand are interspersed with rock "needles", sculpted by the sea. Since antiquity Tabarka has been famous for its coral fishing and the Coral Festival of underwater photography held each summer attracts international visitors and specialists .

The recently built resort Montazah-Tabarka offers a class c yachting harbor with all modern facilities . For the sportsminded, an 18 hole golf course stands in a superb 270 acre forest,overhanging the sea and Tabarka has become "the place" for diving, fishing, sailing as well as the ever enjoyable sunbathing. The summer festival of folklore and music has become justly famous for the quality of its performances by local and international artists and musicians.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The rich natural environment of Tabarka has been carefully preserved and visitors will delight in crystal clear waters and a bay of fine sand with the lovely mountains of Kroumirie as a backdrop. Just a few miles from the beachfront these mountains abound in wildlife from red deer to the solitary eagle. The excursions offered by the Tabarka Club invite both amateur and professional divers to discover the opulence of the sea life .

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

As with most of Tunisian cities Tabarka's history is a colorful mosaic of Phoenician, Roman, Arabic and Turkish civilizations. Nearby Bulla Regia and Chemtou provide visitors with a glimpse of superbly preserved roman sites and overlooking Tabarka itself, the lonely sentinel of a 16th century Genoese fort still stands guard.

...

TOZEUR

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Thusuros (Roman).
LOCATION AND ACCESS: In south-western Tunisia, by the chott el Djerid. 450 km south-west of Tunis, 95 km south-west of Gafsa, 90 km west of Kebili, 210 km west of Gabes. Railway station (Tunis-Sfax-Gafsa line) International airport.
DIALING CODE: 06.
ACCOMMODATION: See Hotels Listing.
AMENITIES: Post office, shops, banks, hospital, pharmacies, car hire (Hertz, av. Bourguiba, tel. 450-214, fax: 450-214), service station.
SOUVENIRS: Berber carpets and dyed cloths, mats, jewellery, dates and syrup (rose, violet, pistachio, pomegranate, banana), minerals (gypsum flowers).

Tozeur a prosperous town,was once,like the mountain oases, one of the Roman outposts and a stopping point for the caravans coming from the sub Sahara to trade with the coastal cities of the Mediterranean, it now owes its fame and affluence to the stately palm and its world renowned dates - deglet nour "fingers of light". The beauty of this oases, its fabulous 14th century medina and botanical gardens attracts visitors from all over the world. The groves of over 200,000 palms are watered by hundreds of natural springs and the Belvedere park offers a panoramic view.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

The medina, restored to its original beauty boasts a museum of exceptional interest .Built in the authentic style of Tunisian palace it displays in a true life setting rare manuscripts, jewelry, ceramics and ornaments as wells as wax figures of the traditional artisans at work. Besides the Dar Chariet museum, the medina, a museum in itself offers another smaller treasure house of ancient coins, doors, bridal apparel and antique weapons. The remarkable architecture of Tozeur , beige sun baked bricks set in geometric patterns, Moorish arches and high vaulted ceilings and the shops offering locally woven carpets, Berber jewelry and ornaments, promise visitors another aspect of Tunisia.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Young and old will certainly enjoy the new theme park, Arabian Nights, where the cavern of Ali Baba waits for the secret words. The adventurous may join an organized tour in a hot-air balloon offered by the Aéroasis club at Tozeur and nature lovers stroll through Paradise, a fragrant botanical garden. The Festival of the Oases held here in late November or December) draws thousands of the winter weary, eager to enjoy the sun and the warmth of their welcome.

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TUNIS

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

NAME: Thén&egraves or Tin&egraves (Punic), Toun&egraves (Arabic).

LOCATION AND ACCESS: In north-eastern Tunisia, by Lake Tunis. 71 km south of Bizerte, 175 km east of Tabarka, 63 km north of Hammamet (by motorway), 142 km north of Sousse, 154 km north of Kairouan, 269 km north of Sfax, 394 km north of Gabes, 353 km north of Gafsa, 446 km north of Tozeur, via an excellent network of tarred roads.

Tourist Information: In Tunis, 1 Avenue Mohammed V. 216-1-341-077 (Office National du Tourisme Tunisien - ONTT).

One hour from Hammamet, Tunis takes you by surprise with its modern conference halls, hotels and banks, bright yellow taxis rushing passengers to a business lunch, all the hustle and bustle of a modern Mediterranean city . Steel and glass blend with the baroque, palm trees look down on chic boutiques, gardens and cafés.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Begin at the monument of November 7, which marks Tunisia's turn towards the future, stroll down shady tree lined Avenue Habib Bourguiba, with its flower stands , passing bookstores and galleries. Beyond the Cathedral and the statue of Ibn Khaldoun, looms the gateway to the ancient Medina.

As you enter the narrow streets , centuries slip away and, like Alice, step into the looking glass to another world. Small shops, their treasures of brass, olive wood, leather and brightly colored garments spill out into the street. Souvenirs, antiques, berber jewelry , carpets and pottery vie for your attention. Continue, if you can resist their lures, upwards towards the Mosque of the Olive Tree, Ez Zitouna, as old as the town itself and the heart of the Medina.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Rebuilt in the 9th century, the Ez Zitouna was for centuries the focal point of life in the Arab city as urban planning decreed the order in which the different trades were placed, and the most noble, booksellers, perfumeries, dried fruits sellers and cloth merchants held the privilege of proximity to the Mosque. Today one can still see traces of this tradition -the Souk of the Perfumes, traditional clothing shops, almond and spice sellers are still located alongside its walls.

The medina, or city, is a wealth of ancient palaces, mosques and centers of trade and learning, a living museum. Dar Ben Abdullah, Dar Hussein, Dar El Bey,Dar El Jeld, Dar El Haddad, Dar Othman, once residences of wealthy traders or ministers now house cultural centers, restaurants or government agencies. (more)

[Iron Man]

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[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

While Tunisia has a justified deserved reputation for beautiful beaches and sparkling clean seas, with the mild year round climate,this blessed land is also a heaven for the sports minded. Sea sports enjoyed during the summer can well be practiced for most of the year in southern resort areas.
Sports such as golf, tennis, diving, hunting, riding, surfing, sailing, hiking and discovering the numerous sites, cities and museums are year round recreations. Where some sports are not available at your hotel, clubs with small entry fees furnish additional facilities. For the amateur, these clubs can provide lessons at a very reasonable cost and some will rent the necessary equipment.

SAILING


[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

This hospitable country with over 1200 km of coast affords innumerable bays and coves, an average yearly temperature of 18°C, a clement sea and a chain of 26 ports and anchorages as well as 4 modern marinas. Conveniently located within or adjoining main resorts complexes they offer modern conveniences and share the facilities of the resort area.


SIDI BOUSAID
[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Sidi Bou Said is a picturesque port at the foot of the hilltop.
This Moorish village, 12 km from the capital is adjoining the resort area of Marsa-Gammarth. A 360 berth marina with all necessary services, fine restaurants and modern hotels a few yards away.


PORT EL KANTAOUI

Port El Kantaoui known as the "garden port", an enchanting and well protected harbour, this modern 320 berth marina is at the heart of the resort complex El Kantaoui/Sousse. Hotels, restaurants, all the comforts are located at the marina with sand beaches and golf courses close by.


CAP MONASTIR

Cap Monastir's marina enjoys a superb position at the heart of the Medina of Monastir, with its towering walls and great fortress. Integrated into the residential hotel complex the marina provides all modern installations with 386 berths and excellent wintering facilities.


TABARKA

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Usually the first landfall for seafarers coming from the north, classified as a C yachting harbour, the 50 berth marina is fully equipped and borders the Montazah/Tabarka resort area. Affords excellent fishing and deep sea diving as well as fine hotels and restaurants.


FORIGN CRAFT

Pleasure crafts arriving from a foreign point of departure may only berth in a harbor with customs and police controls, except in a case of force majeure. Passports are necessary as well as the usual ××××××××s, customary controls and safety equipment.
Upon completion of entry formalities a certificate of free circulation in Tunisian waters and ports is granted stating the period of validity. An informative brochure "Yachting in Tunisia" may be obtained from Tunisian National Tourist Offices.

...

WIND SURFING

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

This most popular summer sport may be enjoyed throughout the year though a wet suit is desirable during the months of December through April.
Outside the hotel circuit and local events, Tunisia is the departure/arrival point for many trans- Mediterranean and Mediterranean competitions. The port of Sidi Bou Said with its school of wind surfing and sailing is a focal point for these international activities.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

LANDSAILING

On your way to the Oases of Tozeur and Nefta lies the Chott El Jerid a 6600 km salt lake. Outside of the rainy season these salt flats present unrivaled opportunities for the fans of "land sailing "....

HUNTING

Hunting of the wild boar in the regions of Tabarka and Ain Draham is organized during the autumn and winter months. The mountains of Kroumirie abound in game and attract hunters from all over Europe. Hunting licenses must be obtained.

...


DIVING


Thanks to a vigorous national conservation program Tunisia's waters remain a high quality environment. The undersea world is abundant and rich for the variety of its flora and fauna and offer to the diver a field for research and discovery. The International Diving Center at Port El Kantaoui, open all year, teaches underwater diving. Offshore nearby Hergla, the sea vibrates with life - shrimp, crabs, mullet and hake.

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

A source of wonder and delight. Northwest ,the Tabarka region has long held the laurels for the diversity of the sea life, the rocky sea bed rich in coral and the clear clean water providing ideal conditions for the flora and fauna of the Mediterranean. Amateur and professional divers may explore this region. The Tabarka Yachting Club organizes dives and can provide amateur and professional divers with the necessary equipment. Both Tabarka Yachting Club and the International Diving Center are affiliated with the C.M.A.S (Confederation Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques) and their diplomas recognized by this World Confederation.


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TENNIS

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Most hotels have tennis courts available for their guests at no charge. Visitors may be charged a token fee for use of the facilities and instructors and sparring partners should be requested beforehand.
Some "tennis hotels" specialize in providing top quality courts and onhand instructors for tennis players and amateurs alike. Tennis Clubs in most cities will permit temporary entrance with lessons. It's better to bring your own racket.
The islands of Zembra and La Galite are natural reserves and permission must be obtained to dive in these areas. La Galite is the home of colonies of seals and walrus.

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GOLF

[فقط الأعضاء المسجلين والمفعلين يمكنهم رؤية الوصلات . إضغط هنا للتسجيل]

Tunisia is the ideal destination for the golfer with 6 courses open all year round. Still comparatively undiscovered, the usual hours of waiting for your turn on the fairway are a thing of the past ! Pack your bathing suit with your clubs...or vice versa !

Carthage Golf Course - La Soukra. 10 km from Tunis - 18 holes par 66, fairways run amidst magnificent stands of eucalyptus, pine, palm and olives trees. Length 4432 meters. [golf Course]

Hammamet Golf Course - Jasmine: Just outside Hammamet resort area. 18 holes par 72, water hazards, practice ground and 9 hole school for beginners.

Hammamet Golf Course - Citrus. Designed around 6 lakes on 300 acres of olive groves and forest near Hammamet beaches . There are 2 courses, "La Foret" 18 holes, par 72 . 617 5 meters and "Les Oliviers" 18 holes, par 72 .6178 meters plus a 9 hole school.

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El Kantaoui Golf Course - El Kantaoui Sousse Resort Area. 27 holes, par 108. Championship competitions over 9576 meters as well as standard 8433 meters. 18 hole putting green and practice ground . This high level course runs across an olive grove and ends alongside the beach.

El Kantaoui Golf Course

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Monastir Golf Course - Sousse/Monastir Resort Area. A very technical course overlooking the sea. 18 holes par 72 length 6140 meters. 5 starting areas and 3 hole school.

Tabarka Golf Course - Tabarka Resort Area. Top quality greens 18 par course (can extend to 27) similar to Cypress Point California. 6306 meters and a 9 hole school .

[Iron Man]

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HOTELS

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RESTAURANTS

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EATING OUT

In Tunisia, the art of vine growing and winemaking dates back to the earliest antiquity. The agronomist Magon, who lived in Carthage at the time of the Phoenicians, recorded in his Treatise of Agronomy viticulture, wine-producing practices that are still in use nowadays. In the Roman mosaics, Dionysos-Bacchus, the god and guardian of wine, contributes to ride high in triumph.

Today, Tunisian wine continues to boast the high repute that the sun, soil and time-honored Tunisian traditions have conferred on it.

Well situated on the most fertile lands, the vineyards extend over an area of some 10.000 hectares (for dessert grapes) and of 15.000 hectares (for wine grapes.) They grow on hillsides blessed with an average annual temperature that never rises above 20° and with a rainfall ranging between 250 and 500 mm a year.

The quality of the Tunisian wines is rich in alcohol content, without excess of acidity, and soft, with the character of new wines and an alcohol percentage of 11 to 12° for both red and rosé, and a slightly lower percentage for white.

The yield is of the order of 480.000 hl, with 60 to 70 % rosé, 25 to 35 % red and 5 to 10 % white. The produce is marketed at 70 % of wine under "Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée" (A.O.C.), of which 20 % id granted the label 1er Cru (First Vintage). Both exports and local market supply in bulk and loose are ensured by "Office National de la Vigne de Tunisie".

The storage, bottling and marketing of bottled wine is entrusted to the producers themselves, namely U.C.C.V. (Union Centrale des Coopératives Viticoles: Central Union of Wine-Producing Cooperatives).

Areas of outstanding wine yields:

Khanguet: Situated at about thirty km south of Tunis, the region produces a choice of red and rosé wines that go very well with red meat and game.

Grombalia-Takelsa: Flanked by the Mediterranean sea to the north in Korbous, and the south in Hammamet and Nabeul, this region yields A.O.C. Mornag produced from the vine-types Alicante, Grenache, Bouschet, Carignan and Consault, and up to 20 % from improving vine-types such as Cabernet Sauvigné, Mouvèdre, Merlot and Syrah which give them mellowness an fineness. The white wines are obtained from the wine-types Merseguerra, Pedroximènes, Clairette, Chardonnay and Beldi.

Kelibia: This is a coastal vineyard growing in sandy and siliceous soil, and is home to the Muscat d'Alexandrie, the A.O.C. 1er Cru "Muscat de Kelibia". The dry Muscat wines of the Cap Bon region can be tasted without anything else as appetizers and go equally well with seafood and grilled fish.

Sidi Thabet-Mornag: Respectively situated at


"Sidi Saâd"
about twenty km to the north and to the south of Tunis, this region produces A.O.C.1er Cru "Grand Cru Mornag", the red and rosé "Coteaux de Carthage", the red "Sidi Saâd", the "Chateau Mornag". The basic vine-types of the region are Alicante Granache, Carignan, Cinsault, Bouschet, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. Monique and the Mouvèdre for the rosé wines. Those noble wine-types give body, balance and elegance to the wines of this region from which originate the fleshy, full-bodied and strong red wines, recommended to go with meat and especially with game.

Tebourba: Produces over a large expanse, A.O.C "Côteaux de Tebourba" wines, and its old dark-red "Magon" wine, with its pomegranate color and its distinctive good and full-bodied bouquet. Also comes under this appellation, in rosé, the fresh and fruity wine "Gris de Tunisie", obtained by dripping from traditional wine-types.

The South-West side of Bizerta region: Produces A.O.C. 1er Cru "Côteaux D'Utique". To the red and rosé wines, based on traditional vine-types, there come to be added, in moderate measure, such improving vine-types as "Cabernet Sauvignon", "Merlot" and "Syrah" which give them fineness and velvetiness.

The Beja-Jendouba region: Situated at 140 km west of Tunis, this region produces, under a markedly contrasting continental climate, A.O.C. 1er Cru "Thibar" wines obtained by normal fermentation of a must yielding 11 to 13° acquired alcoholic content. For the red and rosé wines, the basic vine-types are "Carignan," "Cinsault," "Grenache" and "Bouschet" to which are currently added such imprxoving vine-types as "Mourvèdre", "Merlot" and the "Franc and Sauvignon Cavernets". The ruby-coloured red wines are full and tasty wines; the rosé wines are fruity and fragrant. As for the whites, to whose traditional vine-types (Clairette and Pedroximènes) "Ugni Blanc" is added, they are very dry and very fresh wines. Then, there are Muscat wines which are produced by the Domaine of "Thibar" which markets sparkling wines as well.


TUNISIAN CUISINE

"Tell me what you eat and I'll tell you what you are" And what would our philosopher tell us about Tunisians ?

Plain folk - for whom bread remains the staff of life. From the urban "baguette" to the unleavened country bread baked in a clay domed oven "tabouna" , each region boasts its specialty. Freshly baked bread is available throughout the day and no family meal is complete without it.

SOPHISTICATED

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Sophisticated gourmets - Tunisians' pride themselves on their fine taste buds. Indeed woe to the chef who forgets the touch of cumin in a grilled fish or the bay leaf in the mloukhia, a beef stew thickened with corète. Lamb is the basis of most meat dishes and purchased from one's family butcher after close examination and exhaustive questioning as to the region, season, breed and age. A favorite way to prepare young lamb is coucha - portions of shoulder meat are rubbed with a sauce of olive oil, salt, a sprig of mint, a touch of cayenne pepper and turmeric and baked in a slow oven in a tightly covered earthenware dish .


HEALTH MINDED


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A summer "dinner" may consist of home pressed olive oil, a
few green olives, country bread, heavy and grainy and a salad of sliced scarlet radishes or plump tomatoes served with grilled fish. Pampered by miles of coast and a unpolluted and generous sea, seafood is a mainstay of the Tunisia diet. Without question, the blue ribbon goes to the Rouget -red mullet, a delicious fish either grilled or fried . The varieties of seafood from the imperial royal shrimp to the familiar and much appreciated sardine are endless and each region has its recipes and secrets for preparation. Jerba in particular is known for the excellence of these gifts of the sea.

SOCIABLE

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Tunisian meals are social events and the longer the better. A typical meal would begin with shorba frik- lamb soup with flavored with tomato paste, coriander, parsley and seasonings in which green spring wheat grains are slowly simmered, is served with slices of lemon. Brik, followed by Slata mechouia - grilled green peppers , tomatoes and garlic finely chopped .Spices and olive oil are added and the salad is garnished with tuna fish, hard eggs, olives and capers. Dinner will now begin. Assorted stews follow roasts of lamb, veal or fish, tajine - a rich, flavorsome omelet baked with chopped meat, vegetables and cheese. Fresh salad, fruits, pastries and custards, coffee and tea make the finale.

TRADITIONAL

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Holidays are occasions for the preparation of traditional specialties and though there is some leeway given to the chef'screativity, the main ingredients vary little. On the Mouled, zgougou ,a sweet pudding of ground pine seeds , topped by a vanilla cream and decorated with grated nuts is served throughout Tunisia. The Aid El Fitr, a day marking the end of the Ramadan fast is celebrated by families visiting each other, bringing and receiving plates of pastries, homebaked or purchased with bakloua or makroudh as all time favorites. Aid El Kebir brings to the table a myriad of dishes prepared with lamb- cuminia,osbane, mechoui, lamb chops or cuts grilled over charcoal. Ras El Am, the Moslem New Year is greeted not with champagne but with mloukhia.

CONSIDERATE

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While most Tunisians like their food hot and spicy, restaurants and hotels prepare their menus considering the tastes of their visitors and serve harissa separately. This condiment is made of crushed dried red peppers, garlic and spices and adds a definite zest to any meal. It is a mainstay of many dishes and can be toned down by a touch of olive oil. Many menus are also printed with English, German and French translations of the dishes.

Sweet loving Tunisians have adopted the Turkish baklava - layers of whisper thin pastry interspersed with ground pine nuts, almonds, hazelnuts and pistachios, bathed in golden butter, baked and dipped in a honey syrup. No holiday, wedding, christening or dinner party could be considered without it. Other sweets, makroudh ,a specialty of Kairouan of semolina pastry stuffed with dates, caak, almond paste wrapped in fine dough ,as well as a myriad of regional specialties make up the traditional platter served for every joyous occasion. The vast almond orchards of Sfax supply the different types of almonds that are the basic ingredient of most sweets and cakes. Tunisian pastries are given as gifts for holidays and are well worth a trip to the nearest pastry shop.