Discover the architectural wonders of Mahdia on a 1-day tour from Tunis or Hammamet. Visit the Skifa Kahla gate, the old port, and the Mahdia museum. Explore the beautiful white sand beaches and historical landmarks like the Grand Mosque and El Jem amphitheater.
Discover the architectural wonders of Mahdia on a 1-day tour from Tunis or Hammamet. Visit the Skifa Kahla gate, the old port, and the Mahdia museum. Explore the beautiful white sand beaches and historical landmarks like the Grand Mosque and El Jem amphitheater.
- Skifa El Kahla - Skifa El Kahla is a grand gate dating back to the tenth century. It remains one of the entry points to the historic center of Mahdia and is among the few remnants of the ancient city walls, situated in the heart of the old citadel. The Skifa is part of the fortifications rebuilt by the Turks at the end of the 16th century. As the…
- Skifa El Kahla - Skifa El Kahla is a grand gate dating back to the tenth century. It remains one of the entry points to the historic center of Mahdia and is among the few remnants of the ancient city walls, situated in the heart of the old citadel. The Skifa is part of the fortifications rebuilt by the Turks at the end of the 16th century. As the gate of the fortified city, Skifa el Kahla served as the main tower of the second line of defense, blocking access to the city.
- Mahdia Museum - Located at the entrance to the old town in the renovated premises of the old town hall, this museum reflects both the general history of the country, to which the city has significantly contributed, and the specific history of Mahdia itself. On the ground floor, the museum showcases objects from Libyco-Punic and Roman-African antiquity, while part of the upper floor is dedicated to the Byzantine and Islamic heritage. Greek civilization is represented by two marble columns, partially eroded by mollusks, originating from a Roman shipwreck laden with war booty that sank off Mahdia. Most of the cargo, recovered in the 1940s, is displayed in the ‘Mahdia’ wing of the Bardo Museum. The upper floor also features a wide array of handicrafts, including carved and painted woodwork, mosaics, ornate stucco, ceramics, earthenware, treasures, and jewelry.
- Mahdia’s Old Town - Mahdia, a city with a rich history, was the first capital of the Fatimid caliphs in the 10th century. It is built on a narrow peninsula, flush with rock. The city draws its charm from its sapphire-colored sea, stunning beaches, medina, and the lively atmosphere of a traditional small town, known for its fishermen and silk weavers.
- Fort Ottoman Borj El Kebir - This Borj, also known as a Kasbah, is a fortress constructed at the end of the 16th century on the site of an ancient Fatimid palace. It is considered one of the finest examples of Ottoman military architecture. Built on a quadrangular plan and later equipped with corner bastions, the structure is surrounded by a formidable wall originally featuring a single entrance. After its conversion for use as a prison, another access point was added in the 19th century. This entrance leads, through a vaulted and winding passage, to a courtyard with vaulted rooms. In the southeast corner of this courtyard, an oratory from an earlier construction has been preserved and incorporated into the building.
- Great Fatimid Mosque - Constructed by Obeid Allah el Mehdi between 909 and 934, this is the first Fatimid mosque. It lacks a minaret, with the imam’s call made from one of the two towers. During the Spanish occupation, it was transformed into a sanctuary. The only part dating from the 10th century is its northern section. It was redesigned according to the original plan as part of major restoration work initiated by President Bourguiba in 1964, on land reclaimed from the sea.
- Amphitheatre of El Jem - Discover the awe-inspiring grandeur of the El Jem Amphitheatre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tunisia. Step back in time as you stand amidst the towering walls of this ancient Roman Coliseum, marveling at its remarkable preservation and architectural brilliance. Imagine the roar of the crowds and the spectacle of gladiator battles that once filled its arena. With its commanding presence and rich history, the El Jem Amphitheatre offers an unforgettable journey into the past for travelers eager to explore the wonders of ancient Tunisia.
- Private transportation
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- All fees and taxes included
- Private transportation
- On-board WiFi
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- All fees and taxes included
- Lunch
- Lunch
Mahdia, a city famous for its various architectural splendors, boasts a history steeped with rich heritage. The city is home to the fortified gate of Skifa Kahla, the ancient port, the expansive Bordj El Kébir, and the Mahdia museum. It also takes great pride in its spectacular white sandy beaches and historical structures that include the Grand Mosque,…
Mahdia, a city famous for its various architectural splendors, boasts a history steeped with rich heritage. The city is home to the fortified gate of Skifa Kahla, the ancient port, the expansive Bordj El Kébir, and the Mahdia museum. It also takes great pride in its spectacular white sandy beaches and historical structures that include the Grand Mosque, the ancient city walls, the sea-facing cemetery, and the El Jem amphitheater.
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.