Where's that??!!
As the map reveals, Tunisia has the Mediterranean Sea to its north and east.
Tunisia is also inbetween Libya (South) and Algeria (West). Even though it is between
two volitile countries, it is relatively stable. It is a small, fairly developed
country with a varied history and culture. Tunisia is an Arabic and Islamic
country, but it was once a French protectorate and as a result, Tunisia
is a crossroads between East and West. This western influence still
permeates Tunisian culture. Tunisia gained control of its own destiny in
1956. When Tunisia became the Rupublic of Tunisia it strengthened its
relations with both the Arab states and with France. For example French is
still widely spoken. Nevertheless it struggles to maintain a balance
between its rich Arab heritage and its modern western influences.
Because of its unique place in the world, its relatively stable
politics and its mild Mediterranean climate, Tunisia has become a popular holiday destination. Tourism
has become a thriving industry and there are many resorts along the
East coast.
Weather Underground:Tunisia Weather Conditions
In 1994 and 1996 I was apart of the University of Alberta's excavation of a Roman bathhouse situated
just beyond the city-walls of Carthage,
near to the well-preserved amphitheatre.
The building is known as the "Villa of Scorpianus" from the name which appears
on a mosaic pavement found there in the late 19th century. The project involved the excavation of a Roman bath building at Bir El
Djebbana on the outskirts of the ancient city. Excavation at the site uncovered
a large swimming pool, several mosaic pavements, and part of a Late Antique cemetery.
The houses that I stayed in were in
walking distance to many beaches!! There is no better way to
relax, after a day of digging, than to go swimming, or relax on the beach.
Carthage is a "coffee shop" city. Like in Canada, many people go
to the local cafes to hang out with their friends. The difference is that
a cafe au lait is only 40 cents!!
Please visit the page "What Others Say". I have included my own thoughts on
travelling in Tunisia and of various cities, as well as what other people
have to say.
Who founded the Phoenicians settlement in North Africa?
Elishat, known as Elissa by the Greeks and Dido by the Romans,
founded Carthage (or Utica) according to myth but died soon after. In order
to keep from marrying the local tribal leader, Iarbas, and to remain
faithful to her dead husband, Elissa mounted a sacrificial pyre
and was swallowed by the flames.
Interesting Fact of the Month - November
Even though Rome and Carthage became bitter enemies, Rome linked itself
with Carthage early on through legend. In fact it was Virgil who
linked Carthage's founding with that of Rome's. On his way from Troy to
Italy Aeneas stopped in Africa where he fell in love with, and then
abandoned Dido. In Virgil's story, Dido is said to have killed
herself for him.Go to the Fact Page
to see more facts about Tunisia.
Quote of the Month - November
William's comments: "I lived in Tunisia as a small boy and loved
every minute of it. It is my most favorite place on the planet.
This is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever visited.
The Tunisians do their best to make you feel as at home and welcome
as possible. I lived in La Marsa and would suggest seeing as many
sites as you can like: The Crystal clear beaches of Hammamet,
The Roman Ruins of Carthage and Douga and the exciting night life
of Sidi Bou Said. I would recomend this place to anyone to live
or just stop by and visit. It is truly a magnificant site to see
from the picturesque landscape to the exciting cuisine."
Go to the
See What Others Say Page to read what others think about Tunisia.
It includes thoughts on specific cities.
Photo of the Month - November
Go to the Photos
Page to see the other photos I have scanned.
To see other links on Tunisia visit the
Links Page
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If you are looking for fieldwork opportunities, please visit the
Archaeological Fieldwork Server,
which has information on fieldwork posts.
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