A TRIP TO TUNIS

The capital of Tunisia offers a dual perspective to its visitors. On the one hand, it carries the attributes of its rich and ancient past. This is the medina, the historic heart of the city. Souks, mosques and streets are the most perfect of the Arab-Islamic architecture expression. 

On the other hand, we see the recent traces of the influence of the West and in particular France. To the east of the medina, from the Avenue Bourguiba, lies the modern city. On a rectilinear plan are ordered shops, banks, cafes and buildings in European style. 

Two or three days will not be too much for the charms of the capital and its surroundings. Stroll through the souks to the Eastern perfumes, drink mint tea in a cafe, marvel at the antiquities of the Bardo Museum, relax on the nearby beaches of the capital, wander through the village of Sidi Bou Said and discover the remains of the ancient Punic city of Carthage are some of the thousand and one delights you reserve Tunis. 

History of Tunis 

Founded there are about 13 centuries, Tunis has long lived in the shadow of the thriving city of Carthage. It was not until the eighth century to the Berber town took off. Transformed into a trading post by the Arabs, Tunis became the second city after the very religious Kairouan. The city experienced a period of political stability and economic development for nearly three centuries. 

It is in 1160 that Tunis was proclaimed capital. Hafsid Dynasty in the thirteenth century, Tunis sat his intellectual and religious influence on the rest of the country. It also became a commercial class cluster in the Mediterranean. We note in passing that Tunis was born the famous historian and philosopher Ibn Khaldun (1332-1406). 

In 1534, the Ottomans captured the city. Charles V takes it the next year and give it to the Spaniards. Tunis then passed into the hands of the Beys Beys Husseinite 19 in 1591 will succeed until 1757. 

In 1881, Tunisia is under the French protectorate with the Treaty of Bardo. New neighborhoods were built in the European style (facing outward houses, multi-storey buildings, big streets ...). 

Although under the French protectorate, Tunisia does not resist the German forces and was occupied in 1942 and is released by the British in May 1943 Tunisia gains independence March 20, 1956. 

transport 

The fastest and cheapest way is to fly to get to Tunis. Tunis is only a 2:20 flight to Paris. There are many flights from Paris. Air France and Tunis Air offer daily flights between the two capitals. On the other hand, you can also from the provincial cities: Bordeaux, Lille, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Strasbourg etToulouse. 

Do not hesitate to inquire about formulas "all inclusive" tour operators who are often very competitive. Finally remember that you can do, if your heart tells you, crossing by boat from Marseille.