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TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
TOP 10 REASONS
Why travel to Monastir: Find out the top 10 reasons to visit
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01
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A SNEAK PEAK
A Sneak Peek into Monastir
- The medieval city of Monastir, which wraps itself around the coast, is excellent beach territory, and it is these glorious stretches of sand at the top of most visitors' to-do lists.
- Monastir is home to two critical monuments that are well worth getting off the beach for if you're looking for more than just soaking up the sun.
- The Ribat is one of Tunisia's most spectacular Islamic remnants, sitting directly on the coast.
- The magnificent Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, named after the founder of the modern Tunisian Republic, is located next to the Ribat and beautifully merges traditional and contemporary Tunisian architecture.
- This is also one of the nearest bases from which to take a day excursion to Tunisia's main tourist attractions, the gigantic El Djem amphitheatre.
- Capital: Monastir
- International Airport: Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport (MIR)
- Population: 71 546
- Currency: Tunisian Dinar
- Time: GMT+1
- Driving Side: Right
- Main Electricity: 1.2 V
- Official Language: Arabic
- Religion: Muslim
02
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTS
Top Tourist Attractions in Monastir
- Embark on holidays to Monastir, unveils a captivating blend of history, culture, and coastal charm along Tunisia's azure Mediterranean coast.
- This vibrant seaside destination is celebrated for its idyllic sandy beaches, where crystal-clear waters invite leisurely swims and serene relaxation.
- Monastir's historical significance is evident in landmarks like the Ribat of Monastir, a fortress that has stood for centuries, and the enchanting Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba, paying homage to Tunisia's founding father.
- The city's medina and bustling markets exude an authentic North African ambience, offering opportunities to immerse in local life and discover handcrafted treasures.
- With its rich tapestry of experiences, Monastir beckons travellers to uncover the layers of its past while indulging in the pleasures of the present.
03
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
SEASONS TO TRAVEL
Best Months to Visit Monastir
- Tunisia is typically a sun-rich state with over 300 sunny days each year due to the intersection of two climate zones, the Mediterranean and desert climate.
- Monastir is situated in the Mediterranean north, where the summers are dry and scorching. In June, the average daytime temperature is 29 degrees Celsius.
- Daytime temperatures in July and August frequently exceed 30 degrees Celsius; the average daytime temperature is now 30.6 degrees Celsius, with over 10 hours of sunshine.
- Monastir's summer comes to an end in September. With summer temperatures still hovering around 20 °C to 30 °C, the first rain showers are forecast.
- Temperatures continue to drop in October, ranging from 21 to 26 degrees Celsius during the day. Monastir's winter temperatures hover around 16 degrees Celsius.
- Sunny days are interspersed with chilly, rainy, and windy days from time to time.
04
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
WORTH A VISIT
The Best Places to Visit in Monastir
Ribat
- The Ribat, which is right on Monastir's beachfront, is the town's most famous monument. Harthama ben Ayan constructed the formidable castle around AD 796.
- The building was featured in Monty Python's Life of Brian and Franco Zeffirelli's Jesus of Nazareth so that movie lovers will know it right away.
- It, like the Ribat of Sousse, is one of North Africa's oldest Arab fortresses.
- The three-story Nador tower on the southeast side provides excellent views of the yachting port, the cemetery and the Bourguiba Mausoleum, the Great Mosque, and the medina rooftops.
- The inner courtyard, enclosed on three sides by buildings several stories high and holding the accommodation cells, store-rooms, and case-mates, is entered through an imposing gateway on the west side of the Ribat.
- Another doorway, perhaps erected in the ninth century, separated the main living quarters from additional buildings (maybe women's quarters).
- The previous prayer hall on the upper floor is now home to a tiny Islamic Museum.
Habib Bourguiba Mausoleum
- On the outskirts of Monastir cemetery is the massive Habib Bourguiba Mausoleum.
- Its magnificent splendour, crowned by a golden dome, is a homage to Tunisia's first president after the country gained independence from France.
- This burial mosque, built-in 1963, is where ex-President Bourguiba's and his family's bodies are interred.
- The exterior is adorned with exquisite tiling work, and two 25-meter slender minarets are made of Italian marble.
- a stunning interior surrounds Bourguiba's tomb with glass inlay and a magnificent chandelier.
Bourguiba Mosque
- Monastir, the birthplace of Tunisia's beloved son, Habib Bourguiba, the founder of the Tunisian Republic, has a beautiful mosque dedicated to him.
- The Habib Bourguiba Mosque was erected in 1963 by Taieb Bouzguenda.
- It features a 41-meter-high octagonal minaret and a prayer hall that can hold a thousand worshipers, and Tunis's Hammouda Pacha Mosque inspired it.
- A modest Costume Museum is located nearby, inside Monastir's tourist office (ONTT), featuring exhibits of bridal costumes from all across Tunisia.
- The Musée du Mouvement National (National Movement Museum) is located on Rue Trabelsia and is dedicated to the history of Tunisia's struggle for independence from the French.
Medina
- The souk streets of Monastir's medina (Old Town) district have been spruced up and renovated, but much of the city's traditional beauty has been lost.
- However, if you need to stretch your legs after a day at the beach, this neighbourhood is still one of the best spots for a stroll.
- Here, shoppers will have lots of chances to spend their money.
- From ceramics and leatherwork to silverware, jewellery, and engraved woodwork, the little stores and kiosks are loaded with traditional Tunisian goods.
- Since the medina stores cater to the beach resort visitor market, prices tend to be higher.
05
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
DISCOVER MORE
Monastir Off the Beaten Track
Cemetery
- Monastir's atmospheric cemetery, located immediately northwest of the Ribat, contains many beautiful old tombs. Many are adorned with Kufic inscription bands and faience tiles.
- Look for the tomb of Sidi el Mazeri, a Sicilian-born marabout (Muslim holy man) who preached here in the 12th century.
- After exploring the tall towers of the Ribat, which rise above the white tombstones, a cemetery is a peaceful place for a meander.
- Monastir's Great Mosque, built in the 9th century, is located just south of the cemetery and Ribat. The Zirid dynasty expanded the structure in the 11th century.
El Djem
- For most foreign tourists, a visit to Monastir would be incomplete without a day trip to the mighty El Djem theatre, only a 60-kilometre drive away.
- This massive Roman relic is also easily accessible from Sousse, Sfax, or Mahdia.
- El Djem, one of Tunisia's must-see tourist attractions, is one of the world's finest examples of surviving Roman amphitheatre architecture and the most significant remaining in Africa.
- It's one of the best places in the country to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Roman Empire's glory days.
Skanès
- The northern suburb of Skanès (just off Route de la Falaise) is densely packed with stunning, dazzlingly white villas and luxury hotels that incorporate traditional Tunisian architecture into their mid-century modern architectural design.
- This upper-class suburb is also home to some of Monastir's best beaches, so most sand sloths include a visit here on their Monastir itinerary.
- The road leading to Skanès' central tourist district passes by the former Presidential Palace, surrounded by high walls and a wrought-iron gate.
- Monastir's main draw for many visitors is its perfect white sand beaches. The town itself hugs the coast, surrounded by beaches that stretch in both directions.
- All of the beaches in this area are kept clean and have excellent facilities, including a plethora of restaurants and cafés and sunshades and loungers for rent.
- Many beaches also offer water sports and boating for those who don't want just to lay around and soak up the rays.
06
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
CULTURE & TRADITIONS
Monastir Culture and Traditions
- Historical and architectural landmarks abound in Monastir. One of the city's most important historical icons is the fortification known as the Ribat of Monastir.
- Strongholds were built along the coast over the centuries; one in Monastir has remained in the best shape.
- The castle was formerly home to warrior monks who guarded the city against pirates and invasions.
- The stone-built medieval structure is awe-inspiring in its grandeur. During its centuries of existence, it managed to avoid being destroyed.
- The stronghold now contains a fascinating museum devoted to various types of Islamic art. Famous Tunisian sculptors and artists' works can be found here.
07
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
FOOD FUN FASHION
Monastir: Food, Fun & Fashion Guide
Omek Houria
#FOOD
- Omek Houria is a traditional Tunisian appetizer and side dish. It's a salad comprised primarily of boiling and mashed carrots seasoned with spices and harissa.
- Omek houria was called after a mermaid who coloured her hair carrot-coloured with henna, according to Tunisians.
- This side dish has become one of Tunisia's most popular and is prepared frequently.
- Slate Mechouia is another well-known Tunisian salad.
- It's called "Grilled Salad" in Arabic; however, it's more like a grilled salsa than a salad. It can be found on almost every Ramadan dinner table in Tunisia.
Tunisian Oja
#FOOD
- Given the ease and quickness with which it may be prepared, Tunisian Ojja is a well-known appetizer.
- Eggs, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices (garlic, salt, pepper kohl, and cumin) are the main ingredients, which are all sautéed in olive oil.
- Other ingredients, such as margarine or seafood, might be added.
- The omelette is transformed into a shakshuka by adding potatoes or other veggies. It's different in Egypt, where it's referred to as koshari.
- The ingredients are mixed and baked for five minutes, or until golden brown, before being sliced up and served hot.
Tunisian Kammounia
#FOOD
- Tunisian kammounia is one of Tunisia's most traditional and authentic foods, noted by its delectable flavour and excellent nutritional content.
- Kammounia is simple to make and takes a few minutes.
- The main ingredient in this meal is lamb or cow liver, cooked in a tomato sauce and seasoned with cumin.
Yasmina Shopping Center
#FASHION
- This massive shopping mall is eerily similar to El Corte Ingles in Spain. It is located in Medina's heart.
- It's one of those "fair price" trade centres where you pay the amount written on the merchandise and can't bargain.
- The truth is that prices are not significantly different from souk shops, though they are slightly pricier.
- Purchases, in my opinion, are more convenient because small-business owners can be irritating. The centre comprises multiple plants and has everything found in every souk in the country.
- Carpets, shirts, ceramics, perfumes, tiny souvenirs, lamps, typical national grocery, and bags are among the departments.
FUN
#FUN
- Those who enjoy shopping typically visit Medina upon arrival in Monastir. The historic neighbourhood contains the most alluring markets and stores.
- Here, you may purchase the most popular national products and visit specialist stalls selling oil perfumes and aroma oils, handmade carpets, dried fruit, spices, and jewellery, as well as various handicrafts.
- There are also popular antique stalls where you may find many unusual vintage goods.
- Popular businesses are close to national restaurants, so shopping can always be accompanied by a sampling of popular national dishes.
- A once-a-week agricultural market is conducted in the city's square; therefore, you should visit.
- There are exquisite national garments, inexpensive and high-quality leather goods, hand-painted ceramics, wicker baskets, and various jewellery.
- All local artisans bring their wares to the fair, and you can frequently purchase souvenirs and handcrafted products that are not available in stores.
- The city also contains sophisticated shopping centres. The Yasmina Center is among the largest.
- It is renowned for its numerous souvenir departments, where you can get popular scent oils, pottery, wooden goods, traditional economic magnets, keychains, and T-shirts.
- Here, women can purchase a variety of perfume samples. There are a few stores in the shopping centre that sell exquisite locally-made clothing as well as leather goods of superior quality.
- There are a few boutiques in the city that fashion-forward individuals should visit.
- They sell men's and women's clothing created by local producers; thus, their prices are pretty reasonable.
- Here you may find beautiful bikinis, pinafores, walking shorts, and sophisticated eveningwear styles.
- You can visit the Folla retail centre in Skanes if you require new clothing or footwear.
- The two-story shopping centre carries clothing from both foreign and domestic brands.
- In addition, there is a large carpet store, several unique gift shops, and jewellery kiosks.
- On the first floor is a massive grocery with an extensive selection of popular groceries, spices, and sweets.
08
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
NATURE & SAFARI
Monastir: Natural Beauty & Safari Adventures
- Lake Ichkeul National Nature Park comprises Lake Ichkeul, a marsh area, seasonal rivers, and a mountain and is located in northern Tunisia near the Mediterranean Sea.
- It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980 due to its importance as a year-round stopover for many migrating birds.
- The park is home to about 200 different bird species, including geese, storks, flamingos, and ducks.
- Chaambi National Park is three hours south of Tunis, Tunisia's capital, and close to the Algerian border.
- Since 1977, it has been a biosphere national park, and it is home to over 260 distinct plant species.
- There are roughly 24 mammals, including Barbary sheep, deer, gazelles, and various bird species, among the various plant species.
- The Bou Hedman National Park, in Tunisia's southern area, is one of the country's largest parks.
- The park is around 16,400 acres in size and is home to various vegetation and animals.
- Dorcas gazelles, addax antelopes, Barbary sheep, and various other animals can be found in abundance.
09
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
EVENTS & FIESTAS
Monastir Must-Attend Festivals and Events
- Monastir's atmospheric cemetery, located just northwest of the Ribat, contains many exquisite antique tombs.
- Bands of Kufic inscriptions and faience tiles adorn several of them.
- Look for the tomb of Sidi el Mazari, a Sicilian born marabout (Muslim holy man) who lectured here in the 12th century.
- After exploring the lofty towers of the Ribat, which stand up over the white tombstones, the cemetery is a calm area for a meander.
- Monastir's Great Mosque, erected in the 9th century, is located just south of the cemetery and Ribat. In the 11th century, the Zirid dynasty expanded the structure.
- The Corniche, Monastir's lovely coastal promenade, leads to the Port de Plaisance harbour, where pleasure yachts bob in the Mediterranean.
- Local yacht operators can arrange day cruises to the Mediterranean for a relaxing day of swimming and sunbathing.
- When the day's heat has passed, come here for some fresh sea air and sunset strolls along the Mediterranean.
- The contemporary seaside resort complex known as Village Touristique, which houses the majority of Monastir's premium hotels, is located just past the harbour area.
- For most foreign visitors, a holiday to Monastir wouldn't be complete without a visit to the vast El Djem theatre, only a 60-kilometre journey away.
- From Sousse, Sfax, or Mahdia, you may easily visit these massive Roman remains.
- El Djem is one of Tunisia's must-see tourist attractions. It is one of the best examples of surviving Roman amphitheatre construction globally and the largest in Africa.
- It's one of the best spots in the country to visit if you want to get a sense of the Roman Empire's glory days.
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