The ancient city of Sousse

The ancient city of Sousse

Sousse is the third-largest city in Tunisia, located on the Gulf of Hammamet in the Mediterranean Sea, and is known as the "Garden Port of the Mediterranean." Founded in the 9th century BC, Sousse features a diverse array of architectural styles, including medieval city walls, religious buildings, palaces, underground tombs, and residences. The Sousse Museum houses Tunisia’s national artistic treasures—mosaic artworks, with the oldest pieces dating back 3,500 years. Sousse is also the capital of the Sahel region, an olive-growing area along the eastern Tunisian coast adjacent to the Mediterranean, and is renowned for its handicrafts, festive events, and hospitality.

During Tunisia’s hot summer months, scenes of singing and dancing can be seen throughout the streets of Sousse. Visitors flock from other parts of Tunisia and around the world to enjoy the rhythms, colors, and games of the August Festival. The vibrant costumes and activities evoke the various chapters of this metropolis’s long history, as it boasts a rich heritage that includes Christian catacombs, Roman mosaics, remnants of Byzantine fortresses, and the ramparts of Arab quarters.

The souk (open-air market) in Sousse’s Arab Quarter is bustling with activity. This district is one of the most striking old towns in Tunisia. Visitors can stroll along the narrow streets lined with whitewashed houses, ascend stairways, and enter mysterious passageways before admiring the simple yet beautiful ribat.

Medina of Sousse

Must-visit reason: Tunisia’s most hospitable ancient city

Continent where the attraction is located: Africa【Africa】

Country/Region where the attraction is located: Tunisia[Tunisia]

Province/State where the attraction is located: Sousse Governorate [Sousse Governorate]