Mahdia

A quiet peninsula town with fine white beaches, a fishing port, a seaside cemetery and the Skifa el Kahla gate. Famous for silk weaving and wedding dresses.

History

Founded in 916 by the first Fatimid caliph, al-Mahdi, as his capital before the dynasty moved to Cairo.

Customs

Friday is market day. Visit a silk workshop to see handlooms at work.

Food

Mahdia is the best place for fresh fish and "tajine malsouka", a baked egg and cheese dish.

Best time

June to October for swimming.

In 1907, sponge divers off Mahdia found a Roman shipwreck full of bronze and marble statues. Its treasures are now displayed in the Bardo.