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Carthage / Sidi Bou Said |
Carthage was founded by the Phoenicians in 814 BC. The earliest settlements of Punic Carthage can still be seen on Byrsa Hill, just below the renowned Carthage National Museum. Although destroyed by the Romans in 146BC and later built over by them, recent excavation works have revealed the foundations of five-storey Punic houses, each with its own cistern and drainage system.
The most remarkable early remains are the two basins of the Punic Ports, an evidence of the Carthaginian mastery of the seas, which fascinated and frustrated the Romans.
Another important site of pre-roman Carthage is the Tophet, a burial ground and a sanctuary dedicated to the Punic deities Tanit and Baal. Sidi Bou Said, 5 km from Carthage, is a picturesque village perched high atop a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean, this is a delightful place for a stroll through winding cobbled streets. Its trademark white walls, contrasting sky blue doors and ornate window grids, make for a wonderfully inspiring setting. Wander around the boutiques for souvenirs or relax at a cliff-side Moorish café. |
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Bardo / Medina |
The Bardo museum is housed in the Bey of Tunis’ former palace. Famous for its Roman mosaics taken from archaeological sites all over the country, it is widely considered one of the best collections in the world.Though the Bardo is primarily about mosaics; it also houses the most important finds from Tunisia’s archaeological sites. The Medina (the heart of historic Tunis) is one of the best preserved Islamic cities in the world. Walk through the meandering streets, view the traditional architecture of the Medina’s residential quarters, as well as the activity and excitement of the souks. Also see the great Mosque of Djamaa-ez-Zitouna, walking through Souk Echaouchia (Traditional capmakers market) and Souk El Attarine (Perfume market). |
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Dougga |
Dougga houses some of the largest Roman ruins in North Africa. The tour starts with the theatre erected during the IInd Century AD and donated by the Gracchus family. It continues to the "Place de la Rose des Vents", the Market Place, dominated by Mercury, the god of trade, the well-preserved Capitoline Temple, dedicated to the three roman deities, the Forum, the Public licinius Baths & it ends with the House of Trifolium, the Cyclops’ baths and the magnificent twelve-seat latrines. Lunch at a local restaurant. Then board your vehicle for the return leg to Tunis. |
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War Cemetery Tours |
Many tourists come to Tunisia in order to visit the country and pay tribute to the graves of relatives who sacrificed their lives here for freedom during World War II. Batouta Voyages offers comprehensive War Cemetery tours which combine visits to both the actual graveyards and, whenever possible, to the battlefields (such as the Mareth line battlefield and museum). Depending on your port of arrival and the time you have, you can choose to visit one or more of these sites. |
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Utique & Bizerte |
Utique was once one of Provincia Africa’s wealthiest cities Rewarded by Rome after the destruction of Carthage, Utica became the capital of the Province and, though it doesn’t have as many monuments left as other sites in Tunisia, its important history makes this site an interesting spot to visit. The museum and the House of the Cascade are the main attractions of Utica. Bizerte is the northernmost point of the African continent. Its laid-back and quiet little town atmosphere make this city a favourite week-end beach spot for Tunis families in summer. It is also the last city left by the French, whose presence was very important here throughout the colonial period. |
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