The rich agricultural lands of Tunisia were once the prized breadbasket of the Roman Empire, and today contain Rome’s most complete treasure trove of archaeological remains outside of Italy. 800 years of prosperity are evident in the magnificent mosaics on display both in museums and at the sites themselves, at the spectacular Roman city of Dougga and at el Djem, with its massive amphitheatre arguably in better condition than Rome’s Colosseum. And the remains of the once-mighty capital of the Carthaginian Empire in Tunis aptly tell the story of the epic power struggle between Carthage and Rome during the Punic Wars. While the history behind the country’s staggering Roman and Punic remains will be the primary focus, glimpses of Tunisia’s Arab, Berber and more recent French colonial heritage throughout will add the charming context of its living history, from its souks, medinas and mosques to its deliciously idiosyncratic cuisine.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Uncover the remains of the Carthaginian Empire in Tunisia, from Utica, the first Punic colony in Africa, to its once mighty capital, Carthage
- Marvel at some of the world’s most spectacular Roman Mosaics at the Bardo and El Djem Museums as well as in-situ at the Roman villas at Uthina.
- Immerse yourself in Roman life at the well-preserved remains at Dougga, set in magnificent countryside, with its 3500-seat theatre and evocative forum.
- Discover Sousse, Hannibal’s base during the Punic Wars, with its UNESCO-World Heritage listed Medina, and the spectacularly-sited ruins of Roman Mactaris.
ITINERARY
The full itinerary can be found on the Temple World website.
