Archaeological Site of Carthage in Tunisia

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1979
Size of heritage: 616 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 10,323°
Latitude: 36,853°

Summary

Carthage was founded in the 9th century B.C. on the Gulf of Tunis. From the 6th century onwards, it developed into a great trading empire covering much of the Mediterranean and was home to a brilliant civilization. In the course of the long Punic wars, Carthage occupied territories belonging to Rome, which finally destroyed its rival in 146 B.C. A second – Roman – Carthage was then established on the ruins of the first.

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Archaeological Site of Carthage

The Archaeological Site of Carthage, located in the District of Tunis, Tunisia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds immense historical and cultural significance. This ancient city was once the capital of the powerful Carthaginian Empire and played a crucial role in shaping the Mediterranean world during antiquity.

History

Carthage was founded by Phoenician settlers in the 9th century BC and quickly grew into a prosperous trading hub. The city flourished under the rule of the Carthaginians, who established a maritime empire that rivaled Rome. Carthage's strategic location allowed it to control trade routes and establish colonies across the Mediterranean.

However, the city's prosperity led to conflicts with Rome, resulting in the three Punic Wars. The most famous of these wars was the Second Punic War, during which the Carthaginian general Hannibal famously crossed the Alps to attack Rome. Despite Hannibal's military genius, Carthage was eventually defeated by Rome in 146 BC, leading to its destruction and the establishment of a Roman colony on its ruins.

Current State

Today, the Archaeological Site of Carthage stands as a testament to the city's rich history and the civilizations that once thrived there. The site covers an extensive area, including the ancient city, the Roman amphitheater, the Antonine Baths, and the Punic ports.

One of the most remarkable features of the site is the Tophet, an ancient burial ground where urns containing the ashes of sacrificed children were discovered. This grim discovery sheds light on the religious practices of the Carthaginians and their devotion to their deities.

The Roman amphitheater, built in the 2nd century AD, is another highlight of the site. This well-preserved structure once hosted gladiatorial games and other spectacles, showcasing the grandeur of Roman entertainment.

The Antonine Baths, constructed during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius in the 2nd century AD, were once a magnificent complex of public baths. Although only ruins remain, they provide a glimpse into the opulence and sophistication of Roman engineering and architecture.

The Punic ports, which were crucial to Carthage's maritime power, are also part of the archaeological site. These ancient harbors were once bustling with trade and naval activity, connecting Carthage to the wider Mediterranean world.

Address
Distance: 2,4 mi
Rue Sidi Salah
2070 La Marsa
Tunisia

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 14:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Ancient City of Carthage

Published: November 12, 2010
Length: 11:29 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Kulturblast

Carthage, now in Tunisia...the place that once was the most beautiful and the richest sea port of ancient times, lasting for centuries until the destruction by the Romans in 146 BC. This city...

El Jem El Djem and Carthage

Published: May 31, 2010
Length: 30:59 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Kaiser Jamal

The city of El Jem, or Thysdrus, was built on old Punic settlements. The ampitheatre was built in the 3rd century and was the second most important Roman city in Northern Africa. The city...

Carthage, Tunisia

Published: September 01, 2013
Length: 53:30 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Momir Tomic

Carthage today is a suburb of Tunis, capital of Tunisia. It was the centre of the Carthaginian Empire in antiquity. The city has existed for nearly 3000 years, developing from a Phoenician...

Busfahrt nach Karthago Ausflug vom Hotel AZIZA Tunesien Urlaub 2013

Published: February 17, 2013
Length: 47:10 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Alexander Schütze

Tunesien Urlaub 2013 Busfahrt nach Karthago Ausflug vom Hotel AZIZA Danke an : SENTIDO AZIZA BEACH GOLF & SPA 8050 Hammamet, B.P. 218 direction@hotelaziza.com ...

20100609 チュニジア周遊８日間（１日目）

Published: June 19, 2010
Length: 19:38 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: nobotube

バルドー博物館、ビュルサの丘、トフェの墓、アントニヌス大浴場跡、軍港跡、ザグアンの水道橋跡.

Ruinen von Karthago Ausflug vom Hotel AZIZA Tunesien Urlaub 2013

Published: February 17, 2013
Length: 45:45 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Alexander Schütze

Tunesien Urlaub 2013 Ausflug vom Hotel AZIZA Ruinen von Karthago Danke an : SENTIDO AZIZA BEACH GOLF & SPA 8050 Hammamet, B.P. 218 direction@hotelaziza.com ...

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Near airports

Tunis Carthage International Airport
Large airport - 5 mi (9 km)

Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport
Medium airport - 79 mi (128 km)

Tabarka 7 Novembre Airport
Medium airport - 80 mi (130 km)

Pantelleria Airport
Medium airport - 91 mi (147 km)

Annaba Airport
Medium airport - 139 mi (224 km)

Trapani / Birgi Airport
Medium airport - 140 mi (225 km)

Sfax Thyna International Airport
Medium airport - 149 mi (240 km)

Cheikh Larbi Tébessi Airport
Medium airport - 157 mi (254 km)

Palermo / Punta Raisi Airport
Large airport - 177 mi (285 km)

Cagliari / Elmas Airport
Large airport - 180 mi (289 km)