Wanderlust World Wanderlust World Located among Punic ruins in the remains of what was the city of Carthage, the Tophet tomb is filled with urns containing the remains of babies and young children. Some archeologists assert that the Tophet Tomb confirms reports from a Greek historian that the people of Carthage sacrificed children. Apparently, the children were sacrificed when the city was struggling during times of war or famine. The site consists of a Grave Stone where bodies were sacrificed and a Grave site where urns were buried. The site is dark and depressing, but is a key part of Tunisian history.
Built around 168 CE, the ancient city of Dougga also is known by Tunisians as Thugga. According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Dougga is the best preserved Roman town in northern Africa. For that reason, it was granted a World Heritage Site title in 1997. The Dougga Temple is a large complex with room for 3,500 spectators across 19 tiers. It is a Roman-style theater and was donated by one of the city's wealthiest families. It has been restored by archeologists but certain parts of the structure, including the ceiling and a wall, are missing.
This mosque is the oldest on the African continent and is regarded as the fourth holiest site in Islam. Many Muslims believe that if they are unable to make the required trip to Mecca for pilgrimage, seven trips to the Great Mosque of Kairouan would suffice. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the mosque and must be dressed conservatively to enter the complex. However, the doors are left open for visitors to look inside. The interior consists of 414 ancient columns made from Carthagian marble. To get another vantage point of the mosque, visit the roof of the nearby carpet shop.
Habib Bourguiba was considered the "Father of Tunisia," and led the fight for Tunisian independence. After his death in 2000, a tomb was built in his honor in his hometown of Monastir. The complex containing the tomb consists of beautiful architecture in the form of domed buildings, elegantly paved walkways, marbles and columns. On the inside are a collection of items belonging to Bourguiba set in a building with high ceilings that are elaborately decorated.