Visit Carthage: in the footsteps of a thousand-year-old city

Founded according to legend by Queen Dido in the 9th century BC, Carthage was one of the greatest powers of the ancient Mediterranean, rival of Rome. Destroyed then rebuilt by the Romans, it left a set of exceptional remains, today listed as a UNESCO world heritage site and scattered in a peaceful residential area.

A little history

Understanding Carthage means superimposing two cities. Punic Carthage, trading and maritime, faced Rome during the Punic Wars - those of Hannibal and his elephants. After its destruction in 146 BC. BC, Rome refounded the city, which became one of the most important in the Empire. Most of the ruins visible today are Roman, but Byrsa Hill retains Punic memory.

Sites not to be missed

• The Baths of Antoninus: among the largest Roman baths in Africa, facing the sea.
• The Roman theater, still used every summer for the Carthage International Festival.
• Roman villas and their mosaics.
• The Punic ports, whose circular shape is still legible.
• Byrsa hill and its museum, the historic heart of the city.

How to organize your visit

The sites of Carthage are scattered over several kilometers. A single ticket gives access to all points of interest. Allow half a day for the essentials, a full day to see everything without rushing. Morning is preferable: the heat is more bearable and the light is ideal for photos. Good shoes and water are essential, as shade is rare.

Byrsa Museum and Hill

Byrsa Hill offers the best panorama of the Gulf of Tunis and allows you to grasp the geography of the ancient city at a glance. The National Museum of Carthage, located at the summit, presents sculptures, steles and everyday objects which give flesh to this two-thousand-year-old history.

Carthage lends itself to a quiet visit, between history and views of the sea. By staying nearby, in La Marsa or Sidi Bou Said, you can return there at different times of the day to appreciate all the lights.