Medina of Tunis in Tunisia

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1979
Size of heritage: 296 ha
- Buffer zone: 190 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 10,167°
Latitude: 36,817°

Summary

Under the Almohads and the Hafsids, from the 12th to the 16th century, Tunis was considered one of the greatest and wealthiest cities in the Islamic world. Some 700 monuments, including palaces, mosques, mausoleums, madrasas and fountains, testify to this remarkable past.

Location on Map

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Medina of Tunis: A Historic Gem in Tunisia

The Medina of Tunis, located in the capital city of Tunisia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. With its labyrinthine streets, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, the Medina of Tunis is a testament to the city's past and a living testament to its present.

History

The Medina of Tunis dates back to the 9th century when it was established as the capital of the Aghlabid dynasty. Over the centuries, it grew and flourished under various rulers, including the Almohads and the Hafsids. The Medina became a hub of trade and culture, attracting merchants and scholars from across the Mediterranean.

During the Ottoman period in the 16th century, the Medina of Tunis underwent significant expansion and development. The city's walls were fortified, and numerous palaces, mosques, and madrasas (Islamic schools) were constructed. This period marked a golden age for Tunis, with the Medina becoming a center of Islamic learning and a thriving commercial hub.

However, the Medina of Tunis faced challenges in the 19th and 20th centuries. The city suffered from neglect and decay as the focus shifted to the modern parts of Tunis. Many historic buildings fell into disrepair, and the Medina's cultural significance was at risk of being lost.

Current State

Recognizing the importance of preserving this unique heritage, efforts have been made to restore and revitalize the Medina of Tunis. The Tunisian government, in collaboration with international organizations, has undertaken restoration projects to preserve the architectural and cultural heritage of the Medina.

Today, the Medina of Tunis is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood, with its narrow streets filled with shops, cafes, and traditional crafts. The architecture reflects a blend of Islamic, Ottoman, and Andalusian influences, with intricately carved facades, colorful tiles, and ornate courtyards.

One of the most iconic landmarks in the Medina is the Zitouna Mosque, which dates back to the 8th century. This grand mosque is a symbol of Tunisian identity and serves as a spiritual center for the local community. Visitors can explore its stunning interior and admire its beautiful minaret.

Another notable site within the Medina is the Dar Ben Abdallah Museum, housed in a restored 18th-century palace. The museum showcases traditional Tunisian crafts, including ceramics, textiles, and jewelry, providing visitors with a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Address
Distance: 1,0 mi
4 AVENUE KHEREDDINE PACHA
1002 Tunis
Tunisia

Time Information

Checkout: 11:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 24:00
Weekend: 0:00 - 24:00

Videos from the area

The light railways of Tunis

Published: February 04, 2013
Length: 07:03 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Matthew Geier

Métro léger de Tunis Some snippets of the tramway of the Capital city of Tunisia. Most of the 'Metro' cars are Siemens 'stadtbahn' style cars that run in coupled pairs. Newer cars are coupled...

Tunesien - Hauptstadt Tunis

Published: January 15, 2014
Length: 41:36 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Paul Sippel

Das Video zeigt Impressionen der tunesischen Metropole Tunis, der Hauptstadt des Landes. Tunis besteht aus 3 Zonen: der historische Stadtkern (Medina), sehr gut erhalten; aus der sogenannten...

Tunisia Drive thru Downtown Tunis

Published: May 13, 2012
Length: 29:15 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: MrFatChump

MSC Splendida Shore Excursion bus ride through Tunis, Tunisia.

Habib Mokni - حبيب المكني

Published: February 13, 2011
Length: 26:58 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: sam khalaf

Après 30 ans d'exile en France, Samedi 12 Février, Habib Mokni est de retour en Tunisie avec Al-Nahda. Reportage d'Al Jazeera.

Delphin Show Tunesien

Published: October 06, 2012
Length: 00:44 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Kevin Hunziker

Hichem Kacem

Published: April 14, 2014
Length: 38:40 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Hichem Kacem

Extrait de la "Présentation-Dédicace" du Livre de Hichem Kacem : "D'Abraham à Fatma" (fille préférée du Prophète) à la Maison de la Culture Ibn Zaydoun, El Omrane, Samedi 12 avril 2014....

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Near airports

Tunis Carthage International Airport
Large airport - 4 mi (7 km)

Tabarka 7 Novembre Airport
Medium airport - 72 mi (117 km)

Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport
Medium airport - 80 mi (129 km)

Pantelleria Airport
Medium airport - 100 mi (161 km)

Annaba Airport
Medium airport - 130 mi (210 km)

Sfax Thyna International Airport
Medium airport - 148 mi (239 km)

Trapani / Birgi Airport
Medium airport - 148 mi (239 km)

Cheikh Larbi Tébessi Airport
Medium airport - 149 mi (240 km)

Cagliari / Elmas Airport
Large airport - 179 mi (288 km)

Palermo / Punta Raisi Airport
Large airport - 186 mi (299 km)