TOURISTIC ROUTE

1. Ruspina, the old walled city. Famous in the Middle Ages and defended by solid walls that served as defences for Julius Caesar in his African campaign, the city grew following the construction of its Ribat, a fortified Muslim monastery founded in the eighth century. Today you can visit the Ribat and see an interesting Islamic museum, where you will find engraved steles and a magnificent astrolabe dating from 927, among other curiosities.
2. Bourguiba Mosque. Built in the traditional style, in 1963, this mosque commemorates the first president of independent Tunisia, who was born in Monastir. It is notable for its rich decoration. Visitors must pass through 19 carved teak doors to reach the prayer hall, whose vaults rest on 85 pink marble columns. The beautiful mihrab is framed by small onyx columns and the octagonal minaret towers above the mosque, crowned by a small gallery built in the Ottoman style.
3. Great Mosque (11th century). Located near the coast and the Ribat, the mosque towers over the centre of the Medina, with its sober stonework façades, arches and solemn columns. The building remains true to the architecture of the Tunisian oratory, while its classical minaret shows the influence of Aghlabid architecture.
4. Habib Bourguiba Mausoleum. Located in the city centre, this family mausoleum is similar to a mosque with its impressive golden dome and the two slender minarets that stand on either side. It is built with polished stone, blue ceramics and beautiful Carrara marble, which enclose a truly spectacular interior.
5. A town of craftsmen. In Monastir time seems to have stood still. Walking along its picturesque narrow streets, we are always accompanied by heady floral fragrances. This is the perfect place to see the coppersmith at work and craftsmen carving wood or making pottery. It is impossible to resist the charm of the merchants in the great carpet bazaar and the colourful market, always full of life.

LEISURE HIGHLIGHTS

In Monastir there are countless leisure options. Whether you like sport, buying craftwork, walking along endless white sandy beaches, immersing yourself in the hustle and bustle of the town or admiring the originality of traditional Bedouin costumes and jewellery, you have chosen the best place possible.

Water sports: Monastir boasts a magnificent marina, a meeting place for lovers of water sports. Depending on your preferences, you can enjoy sailing, windsurfing and diving or, if you prefer, you can hire a sea scooter. And if you want to combine these activities with sports on land, you will also find excellent facilities for horse riding, tennis, archery and beach volleyball.

Golf courses: Monastir has two beautiful 18-hole golf courses. The Flamingo Golf Course delights experienced players with its technical layout, although it is accessible for players of all levels. The Palm Links Golf Course is perfect for players who are keen to perfect their technique.

A WEALTH OF LEISURE OPTIONS How about a walk round the small harbour or renting a boat to see the coastline with its multitude of islands and islets? You can see the mysterious El Kahlia caves, which are entered at sea level. Another option is to visit the Douar Kortine amusement park, where there are displays of scenes from traditional life. If you want to relax, there are thalassotherapy and balneotherapy centres at your disposal, plus beaches that are consistently ranked among Tunisia's finest.