When you step into the Medina of Tunis, you are not merely visiting a historical district, you are stepping into a living, breathing masterpiece of architecture, history, and tradition. This UNESCO World Heritage site is the original heart of Tunis, the city before the city, where every stone and alleyway tells a story.

A Fortress of History: The Seven Gates of the Medina

The Medina was once entirely enclosed within massive defensive walls, accessible only through seven iconic gates. Though many of these gates have disappeared over time, some still stand proudly today, such as Bab Bhar (the Gate of the Sea), which once opened toward the European districts, and Bab Jedid (New Gate), one of the last remnants of the city’s fortified past.

Bab B'har - Tunis © By Asma Hafoudhi

 

At the heart of the Medina lies its centerpiece: The Great Mosque of Al-Zaytuna. It is not just the most significant religious site in Tunis but also the oldest functioning university in the world, where scholars once gathered to study Islamic jurisprudence, astronomy, mathematics, and philosophy. Interestingly, over time, the university was separated from the mosque, marking a shift in education systems.

Al Zaitouna Mosque - Tunis © By Asma Hafoudhi

 

A Maze of Markets: The Soul of the Medina

Surrounding the Zaytuna Mosque are the bustling souks (markets), meticulously organized based on the nature of their trade. The placement of each market was no coincidence; shops selling fragrant goods such as perfumes and spices were positioned closer to the mosque, while industries emitting strong odors, like leather tanning and metalwork, were set further away.

What to Buy?

• Souk El Attarine: The kingdom of perfumes, musk, and incense.
• Souk El Berka: Once a slave market, now a hub for gold and silver jewelry.
• Souk Es Sabbaghine: The center for handmade fabrics and dyes.
• Souk El Trouk: A place to find traditional Tunisian outfits.
• Souk El Chachia: Where the famous chechia, Tunisia’s iconic red felt cap, is crafted by hand. Read more about its history and significance here.

Tunis Medina © By Asma Hafoudhi

Timeless Architecture: A Living Museum

Walking through the Medina, you’ll notice that many of the streets are covered with arched vaults, a unique feature designed to protect against the summer heat and winter rains. The paving stones beneath your feet are not ordinary; they were brought from volcanic regions, ensuring they never overheat, even in the scorching Tunisian summers.

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Medina’s urban planning is its use of space. Due to the walled nature of the city, buildings were often expanded vertically, with houses featuring upper floors that extend over narrow alleys, creating shaded passageways that naturally cool the streets below.

Tunis Medina © By Asma Hafoudhi

Schools and Libraries: A Legacy of Knowledge and Learning

Khaldounia School: A Beacon of Enlightenment
Located in the heart of the Medina, Khaldounia School was established in 1896 as a modern educational institution aimed at developing Arab and Islamic thought. It became a hub for Tunisia’s intellectual and cultural renaissance, combining religious studies with modern sciences, attracting prominent scholars and reformists.

Madrasa Al-Nakhla: A Blend of Tradition and History
One of the oldest schools in the Medina, Madrasa Al-Nakhla was renowned for teaching Islamic sciences and Arabic language. As part of Tunisia’s traditional education system, it played a significant role in shaping generations of scholars and religious figures.

Ancient Libraries: Hidden Treasures in the Alleys
The Medina was not just a commercial center; it was also home to rich libraries, such as the old site of the Tunisian National Library, which housed rare manuscripts and centuries-old books, a true testament to the city’s intellectual heritage.

Cafés and Restaurants: A Taste of the Past

The Medina isn’t just about history it’s a place to experience Tunisian hospitality and cuisine.

Where to Drink Coffee Like a Local?

• Café El M’rabet: Established in the 17th century, it is the oldest café in Africa, and one of the most iconic and atmospheric traditional cafés.
• Panorama Café: The perfect place for a breathtaking sunset view over the Medina’s rooftops.

Where to Eat?

• Dar El Jeld: The Medina’s most renowned fine-dining restaurant, housed in a meticulously restored palace. Its mosaic walls, intricate wooden doors, and golden chandeliers transport you to another era while you enjoy refined Tunisian cuisine.
• Fondouk El Attarine: A beautiful courtyard restaurant that blends history and gastronomy.

Where to Stay?

If you want to experience the Medina at night, there are several unique accommodations that allow you to sleep within its historic walls.

• Royal Victoria Hotel: Originally built in the 17th century as the British consulate, this hotel near Bab Bhar combines European and Tunisian elegance.
• Traditional Guesthouses (Dars): Staying in a Dar (a traditional Medina house) is an unforgettable experience. Dar Ben Gacem and Dar Said offer beautifully restored rooms with authentic decor and peaceful courtyards.

Royal Victoria Hotel, Medina of Tunis © By Asma Hafoudhi

Landmarks You Can’t Miss

• Tourbet El Bey: The royal mausoleum where the Beys of Tunis are buried, featuring intricate Ottoman-inspired tilework.
• Dar Lasram: A historic palace showcasing the luxurious lifestyle of 18th-century Tunisian nobility.
• The House of Ibn Khaldun: Although not fully restored, this is the birthplace of Ibn Khaldun, the father of sociology.

How to Get There?

The Medina is just a 15-minute drive from Tunis-Carthage International Airport, making it an easy stop for travelers. It is also within walking distance from Avenue Habib Bourguiba, the modern heart of Tunis.

Why Visit the Medina of Tunis?

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers an immersive historical experience.
• A paradise for photographers, with stunning alleyways, intricate doorways, and vibrant markets.
• A unique opportunity to shop for authentic Tunisian handicrafts.
• A chance to taste traditional food in centuries-old surroundings.
• A cultural experience where you don’t just see history, but you feel it.

The Medina of Tunis is not just an old town; it is the beating heart of Tunisia’s past and present. Whether you are an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a culture lover, this labyrinth of history will leave you spellbound.