Medina of Tunis

Around 700 monuments packed inside the old walls: the Zitouna Mosque, covered souks organised by trade, Ottoman palaces and hidden rooftop cafés. Listed by UNESCO in 1979.

History

The medina grew around the Zitouna Mosque, founded in the 8th century, and peaked under the Hafsid dynasty when Tunis was a capital of the Islamic world.

Customs

Bargaining is expected in the souks. Start at around half the asking price and keep it friendly.

Food

Try "lablabi", a chickpea and cumin soup served with bread, olive oil and harissa.

Best time

Weekday mornings. Many shops close on Sunday.

Each souk was traditionally reserved for one guild. The perfume sellers sat closest to the Zitouna Mosque, while noisy and smelly trades such as tanners were pushed to the edges.