Tunis, the radiant capital that gave Tunisia its name, sparkles on the shores of the Mediterranean. Located in the north of Tunisia, on one side of the Strait of Sicily, this ancient city boasts two different aspects. Its typical medina, or old quarter, and its modern town make it one of the most dynamic capital cities in the world. The visitor to Tunisia should also take in its beaches and the Roman ruins of legendary Carthage.
Strategically situated in the north of Tunisia, Tunis is the only city of importance on the busy Strait of Sicily. Founded by the Carthaginians then taken by the Romans, the town saw its strongest growth under the Arabs who settled in the 7th century and created an important military port. In 902, Tunis became the capital of Tunisia which was later a protectorate of France until 1956. Today the city is a modern capital with a population of 2 million and a busy commercial and pleasure port. Tunis truly has the wind in its sails with many projects to improve its infrastructure and renovate and create new districts.
Tunis is very comfortable with its two dimensions: the Medina is the historic heart of the city where you will find the ancient Zitouna Mosque, the Dar Othman Palace and the souk, highly regarded by perfume makers, while in the modern town, the large European-style avenues such as Bourguiba Avenue or Avenue de France, show off their beautiful Art Déco style buildings. Tunis has swallowed up the ancient city of Carthage, and in its suburbs you can explore the remains of this fabulous city, destroyed and rebuilt by the Romans and now officially classified by UNESCO. The beaches of Tunis are also worthy of a visit, the most famous being La Marsa, Gammarth and Raoued. Come and enjoy the gentle pace of life in Tunis.