Embark on a full-day excursion in Tunis, Carthage, and Sidi Bousaid. Explore ancient ruins, visit a picturesque village, and discover the vibrant culture of Tunis. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in history and beauty!
Embark on a full-day excursion in Tunis, Carthage, and Sidi Bousaid. Explore ancient ruins, visit a picturesque village, and discover the vibrant culture of Tunis. Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in history and beauty!
- Tophet de Carthage - Today, many historians believe that the site known as “Tophet” may have been a children’s cemetery. It is conceivable that Carthaginian parents conducted a special ritual there to honor the god Baal and the “Lady Tanit,” the great maternal goddess, dedicating their infants who passed away to them. However, the powerful imagery…
- Tophet de Carthage - Today, many historians believe that the site known as “Tophet” may have been a children’s cemetery. It is conceivable that Carthaginian parents conducted a special ritual there to honor the god Baal and the “Lady Tanit,” the great maternal goddess, dedicating their infants who passed away to them. However, the powerful imagery created by Flaubert was so influential that it took many years to accept this view. The imposing statue of the “god Moloch,” the merciless priests, the flames of the pyre, the savage rituals, the blood, and the cries overshadowed the reality of the archaeological findings. Even today, a part of the Carthage site is referred to as “Tophet” or, more accurately, the “Sanctuary of Tanit and Baal.” Visitors can see numerous engraved stelae that the ancient Carthaginians once placed when making a wish.
- Punic Ports & Museum - A guided tour reveals the shape of the legendary ports, the foundation of Carthage’s power and prosperity. A narrow channel connected the southern, oblong merchant port to the northern circular naval port. This design concealed the military port from view, while the Carthaginian navy could observe the sea. The military base accommodated an impressive 220 vessels in dry docks and along the quay-lined perimeter. The 7-hectare commercial port was surrounded by quays and warehouses.
The ports were filled in by Scipio following Carthage’s destruction in 146 BC, but in the 2nd century AD, the Romans transformed the islet into a circular form, with two temples, and utilized the port to house their merchant fleet, which transported wheat to Rome. Rising sea levels necessitated the raising of the quay walls several times. By the end of the 6th century, the harbor had fallen into disuse.
- Baths of Antoninus - A large complex of Roman baths constructed in the 2nd century, now part of an archaeological park.
- Carthage Museum - Located in the center of Carthage, the national museum stands atop the hill of Byrsa, a symbolic site where the ancient Punic city was established. Surrounding it are remnants dating back to the 2nd century BC. Visitors can enjoy the view of the surroundings. It is the oldest Tunisian museum, established in 1875, and serves as a testament to the significant archaeological discoveries made at Carthage. The museum offers insights into the turbulent history of this city, which was the heart of a rich civilization.
- Sidi Bou Said - With its unique blue-and-white color scheme, cobbled streets, and stunning views of azure waters, the cliff-top village of Sidi Bou Saïd is one of the most picturesque locations in Tunisia. Named after a 13th-century Sufi saint, its distinctive architecture blends Ottoman and Andalusian styles, a result of the influx of Spanish Muslims in the 16th century. For the French, the tranquil fishing village epitomized the Orientalism romanticized by Europeans in the 19th century, and they ensured its character—both real and imagined—was preserved (it was granted protected status in 1915). Past residents and visitors include artist Paul Klee, author André Gide, philosopher Michel Foucault, and British eccentrics Osbert and Edith Sitwell. It continues to evoke a sense of North African fantasy today, both for visitors and, interestingly, for Tunisians themselves.
- Medina of Tunis - This expansive labyrinth of ancient streets and alleyways is one of the most remarkable medieval medinas in North Africa and one of Tunisia’s great treasures. It hosts numerous covered souqs offering everything from shoes to shisha pipes, as well as lively cafes, back streets filled with artisans at work, and residential areas marked by grand, brightly painted doorways. Historic palaces, hammams, mosques, and madrassas (schools for the study of the Quran) are scattered throughout, many lavishly adorned with tiles, carved stucco, and marble columns.
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The National Bardo Museum - A guided tour of the National Bardo Museum, one of Africa’s most significant museums, showcases prestigious mosaic collections and exhibitions of the valuable heritage of various civilizations that have flourished along the Mediterranean’s shores.
MONDAY: MUSEUM CLOSED, NO VISIT
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- On-board WiFi
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Private transportation
- Bottled water
- On-board WiFi
- Lunch
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Uncover the past of ancient Carthage and explore its ruins ranging from Punic to Roman ruins - a temple, an aqueduct, Antonine baths, a theatre, a military port, houses, and corporate buildings. Make sure to visit the Christian basilicas and the archaeological museum where the guide will chronicle the onsite history.
In the Sidi BouSaid village, take in…
Uncover the past of ancient Carthage and explore its ruins ranging from Punic to Roman ruins - a temple, an aqueduct, Antonine baths, a theatre, a military port, houses, and corporate buildings. Make sure to visit the Christian basilicas and the archaeological museum where the guide will chronicle the onsite history.
In the Sidi BouSaid village, take in the grandeur of Baron’s Palace - an art marvel that captivates visitors with its splendor and uniqueness. Bask in the breathtaking views from the charming blue and white village that sits atop a hill overlooking Carthage proudly.
Post a traditional lunch, delve into Tunisia’s capital, Tunis. An orientated tour within its Medina will show you how Tunis masterfully blends East and West, modern and traditional, young and old. The guide will show you the hidden treasures - palaces, religious institutions, mosques, tucked away in narrow lanes in one of the country’s most beautiful medinas. Founded in the 7th century, this Medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.