Kebili
From the series “The Hottest Places in the World”
Oases are usually considered lifesaving beacons in the desert, as they save you from sweltering heat. Contrary to popular belief, Kebili Oasis in Tunisia is among the hottest places on the planet. Despite the presence of lush trees and relative shade, the temperature here often rises to 55°C, which is pretty impressive even by African standards. Oasis Kebili is inhabited; its indigenous people have long been accustomed to hard climate and can’t imagine their life elsewhere. As it was found by scientist, the first settlements on the territory of the oasis have appeared thousands of years ago. Modern scientists were able to find an explanation for the current natural anomaly. Picturesque Kebili is on way of the sirocco wind that originates in the heart of the Sahara and moves the hot air of the desert to the north.
Today Kebili is a modern city, which covers the entire territory of the oasis and has all the important features inherent to conventional settlements. There are several hotels within the city and these places aren’t neglected by tourists. There are lots of notable sites nearby, including the salt lake Chott el Djerid. In times of drought the lake is always dry, but eventually it’s re-filled with water. Kebili is ready to offer its guests all facilities for interesting and informative holiday. ... Complete sights collection
Sidi Bou Said
From the series “Monochromatic Cities - Stunning Views”
In the Northern part of Tunisia has placed a small city – Sidi Bou Said. One of its peculiarities is a great number of white coloured houses. All shutters, windows, door and signs are painted in deep blue. This town was established in the 12th century and became the destination of choice for wealthy Europeans in the 17th century. At the beginning of the 19th century, a famous French baron Rodolphe d'Erlanger bought a luxurious house there. Therefore, one legend says that he initiated to paint all townhouses in white-blue colours. This tradition took roots and in 1915 there appeared the law about the building colour. Since that time all buildings must be in white, light blue or blue colours. Today the town is very popular among tourists. Walking on its terraces and streets you can see nooks of the town and take wonderful memorable photos. A central street is a lively place. There have placed shops with local production, outstanding handicraftsman's items, souvenirs.
Most houses that you can see today dated from the 13th century. At the main street, there are several art galleries where you can not only adore with the art but also buy the painting that you liked. Note that every door is decorated, that is one more peculiarity of this town. Notwithstanding that all doors are painted in light blue or blue colour, you won’t see the same doors. Apart from marvellous historical sightseeing this town has a great beach. ... Complete sights collection
Dougga
From the series “Remains of the First Ancient Cities”
You can see a unique ancient city in the territory of modern Tunisia. It's called Dougga. Its last name has been preserved to this day. The city received it from the Berbers. The name of the city is translated from their language as "pasture". You can see the buildings of the ancient city on the territory of the archaeological area. Its area is about 65 hectares today. The city was captured by vandals in its heyday. Many of its early buildings were permanently destroyed during this period. Visitors to the archaeological area can see an interesting building from the Punic era today. This is the Mausoleum of Atban. The so-called Capitol has been preserved nearby. It combines the ruins of the temples of Juno, Jupiter, and Minerva. Researchers have discovered fragments of a huge statue of Jupiter on the Capitol grounds. They are kept in the national Bardo Museum today. The theater is one of the earliest surviving buildings of the ancient city. According to historical data, it was built in 168 BC. This historical monument has been restored. It is used for the annual summer festival at present.
Ruins of ancient thermal baths have also been found in the archaeological area. Almost the entire territory of the archaeological area is open for tourists today. The most interesting time to visit the archaeological area is at the end of July. The theater festival starts here at this time. Interesting theatrical performances are held in the old arena every evening during the festival. You can also attend music concerts and various events. They are dedicated to national culture. ... Complete sights collection
