Discover Tunisia: Stunning Beaches, Cultural Treasures, and Exotic Adventures in the Land of Jasmine
Tunisia is located in northern Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and east. To the west lies Algeria, and to the southeast Libya. The country's name derives from its capital city, Tunis.
The island of Djerba is the largest offshore island at 514 km² and is hugely popular with tourists.
The History of Tunisia
- Throughout its history, Tunisia has been shaped by numerous civilizations. The Berbers were the original inhabitants of the land.
- Around 800 BC, the Phoenicians established the first settlements along the Tunisian coastline.
- The Romans incorporated Tunisia into their province of Africa.
- Christianity prevailed until the Arab conquest beginning in the 7th century.
- The region experienced a cultural golden age in the 12th century.
- In the 16th century, the Ottoman Empire took control and ruled until the late 19th century.
- France then imposed its protectorate on Tunisia.
- Tunisia gained its independence in 1956 and was governed by the authoritarian one-party rule of Neo Destour/RCD. The political stability allowed Tunisia to develop into one of Africa's most prosperous nations. Today, light industry, tourism, and agriculture are major economic pillars.
- In 2011, outraged opponents of the regime ousted the president amid violent unrest. Even the transitional government under Prime Minister Mohammed Ghannouchi failed to restore calm.
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