Monastir is the most authentic resort in Tunisia. An oasis of calm and bliss – Monastir Museums in Monastir

Basic moments

Monastir with its wide streets, beautiful roads, green squares and a yacht marina looks very respectable. The ancient monuments of the city - the ribat and the Great Mosque - are perfectly reconstructed, the walls and entrance gates of the well-preserved medina resemble a luxurious scenery for adventure and historical films. Monastir owes its somewhat picturesque appearance to the leader of the nation, Habib Bourguiba, who was born here. On his initiative, in the 60s of the last century, the city was renovated, which required colossal human and financial resources. The memory of the first president of the country is captured in a grandiose mausoleum and a beautiful mosque named after him. These buildings are no less striking sights of the city than its medieval buildings.

Monastir has its own airport, built in the tourist area, in the Skanes area, which is located west of the city center. Skanes boasts beautiful beaches stretching for 9 km towards the popular resort of Sousse. In Monastir itself, there are not too many amusement parks, discos, nightclubs, so the neighboring resort is in high demand among young people vacationing here. Otherwise, Monastir is ready to offer its guests a traditional seaside resort a set of entertainment: here you can do yachting, diving, water skiing, parasailing. There are golf courses, horse riding clubs.

There are many excellent restaurants in Monastir with Mediterranean, Tunisian, French cuisine. The best of them are located on a beautiful embankment, near the marina. Many tourists in search of authentic and inexpensive dishes head to the medina, which preserves the atmosphere of a traditional Arab city. It is interesting to wander along the narrow streets lined with pretty blue and white houses, buy souvenirs, see how artisans work, weaving carpets by hand or carving bizarre figures from wood.

History of Monastir

The history of Monastir dates back to the 5th-4th centuries BC. e., when on the sea coast, along which the modern city is located, the Phoenicians founded a settlement called Ruspina, which means "edge of the peninsula" or "cape". Ruspina is mentioned in one of the first treaties between Rome and Carthage. It is known that during the Second Punic War, the city remained loyal to Carthage, providing assistance to the troops of the famous commander Hannibal Barca, the sworn enemy of the Roman Empire. In 146 BC. e., after the fall of Carthage during the last war between the two states, Ruspina was under the rule of the Roman Republic, but the traditions of the Punic civilization were preserved here during the period of Roman domination.

Ruspina became the first city in Africa to ally with Julius Caesar. This happened in 47 BC. e., when the legendary Roman launched military operations here against his political opponent - Pompey, who was hiding in Egypt. Caesar turned Ruspina into base camp, surrounding it with a triple fortress wall, the remains of which can still be seen in the city. A profitable alliance brought the city an increase in its status, and the privileges granted by Caesar turned into economic prosperity.

At the beginning of the 5th century A.D. e. African territories Rome was captured by the Vandals, but in the 30s of the next century the Byzantines established themselves here. During the years of their more than a century of rule, a fortress was built off the coast of Ruspina, protecting the city from attacks from the sea. Its garrison consisted of warriors who had taken monastic vows. During this period, the city acquired a new name - "Monastir". It is generally accepted that this word is a borrowing of the Greek term "monastrion". So the Byzantines called the forts built on the Mediterranean coast, the garrisons of which consisted of monks. The name stuck, and the Muslims who invaded the territory of Tunisia in 670 did not change it. This version of the origin of the name of the city is the main one, but far from the only one.

In the 8th century, under the rule of the Arab Abbasid dynasty, the first ribat in Tunisia was built in Monastir - a fortress-monastery, where Muslim warrior monks divided time between prayers and repelling attacks by invaders. In the 9th century, the fortress was expanded, and the Great Mosque was erected not far from it. In the XI century Monastir became a major religious center and received the status of a Holy City.

In the vicinity of Monastir there are olive plantations and orchards. The territory of the local airport is surrounded by salt lakes, where you can see white storks in summer. The lakes are separated by earthen embankments, access to them is prohibited.

Monastir has a dry Mediterranean climate with hot summers, extremely warm winters, sunny days and little rainfall throughout the year. The weather here is much milder than in the cities located in the central part of the country.

The season in Monastir, as in neighboring resort towns, traditionally lasts from May to October. In the hottest months - July and August - the daily air temperature can reach +35 °С, the water in the sea warms up to +27...+28 °С. The peak of the heat falls on the interval from 13:00 to 16:00.

Tourists who feel uncomfortable at such temperatures come to Monastir in May or June, when the temperature does not exceed +30 ° C, and the water has already warmed up to +25 ° C, or go to this resort at the end of August - September. By the beginning of autumn, the daytime temperature drops to +28 °С, in October - to +25 °С. The water is still warm: +24...+26 °С. Keep in mind that October is the rainiest month. The number of "wet" days during the month can add up to a week. However, precipitation at this time is short here - it rains for 5-10 minutes, sometimes it is accompanied by strong gusts of wind.

Winter in Monastir is about +17 °С during the day and +8...+9 °С after sunset. At this time of the year, winds often blow, and rains sometimes turn into heavy downpours.

Spring comes early - in March in the afternoon it is already about +20 ° С, sometimes it can rain, but by the beginning of May the precipitation stops.

Sights of Monastir

The main attractions of Monastir, except for the Habib Bourguiba Museum, are located in the city center. You can get acquainted with them in a day, combining the tour with a walk through the modern city with its wide alleys and spacious squares.

It is convenient to start the tour with a visit to the ribat, reputed to be the oldest not only in Tunisia, but also in all the countries of the Maghreb. The coastal fortress was built in 796. For centuries, the fort protected the city from enemy attacks from the sea. Ribat was repeatedly expanded and strengthened over the millennium, from the 9th to the 19th century. It was these successive additions that gave it such a majestic and spectacular appearance. During what is called the "reconstruction of Bourguiba", the ribat was completely restored, but managed to maintain its charm and originality.

At the entrance to the fortress, you will be handed a brochure in Russian, which describes in detail the defensive objects. With this guide, you can roam the territory of the fortress, riddled with labyrinths of narrow passages and stairs. From the nador, a watchtower that rises above the ribat in three tiers, a beautiful view of Monastir and its surroundings opens up. You can climb the tower by a spiral staircase.

On the second level of the ribat, in the former prayer hall, is the Museum of Islamic Art, which displays exhibits relating mainly to the period of the reign of the Abbasids and Fatimids. The most valuable of them are the astrolabe, designed by the Arabs and made in the Spanish Cordoba in 927, as well as the remains of the legendary gate of the Great Mosque of Kairouan, the oldest in the Maghreb. It also displays ceramics, jewelry, ancient manuscripts, coins from different eras.

Ribat is open to the public from May 1 to September 15, from 08:30 to 18:00. In other months it closes an hour earlier. The entrance ticket costs 7 dinars.

Near the ribat are the pavilions of the IMF (International Monastir Films) film studio. It cooperates with world-famous film companies specializing in the production of adventure films. Famous directors worked here, for example, George Lucas, who filmed scenes for the films Star Wars and Raiders of the Lost Ark in Tunisia.

Ribat is located at the very entrance to the medina (Old City), near which is the Museum of Traditional Clothing. It is small, but expressively original. Here is an interesting collection of dresses, including festive ones, which are traditional for the inhabitants of the coastal regions of Tunisia. Among the exhibits are original jewelry, ceramic and earthenware, decorated with patterns that embody the Berber symbols of well-being.

Medina is always crowded and noisy. In this corner of Monastir, it is interesting to wander through the labyrinths of colorful narrow streets, looking into local shops selling interesting little things. There are many small cafes where it is nice to have a cup of strong coffee or mint tea. At the Western Gate, you can climb the fortress wall and capture spectacular panoramas of the sea bay and the Old City in a photo or video.

It is also worth taking the time to inspect the Grand Mosque, built in the 9th century, during the Fatimid era. This massive structure initially did not have a minaret, as it belonged to defensive structures. The minaret was added in the 11th century, since then the mosque has been rebuilt and completed several times. The entrance here is available only to Muslims, so the beautiful colonnades and arches of the religious building can only be admired from the outside.

In 1963, a new mosque was built in Monastir. It was erected on the initiative of Habib Bourguiba, and since that time it bears his name. Today this mosque is the main one in the city. Its 41 m high minaret is visible from most corners of Monastir, and the magnificent snow-white domes are admirable.

The Habib Bourguiba Mosque is an example of a symbiosis of traditional and modern religious architectural art of Tunisia: the prayer hall is square, the capitals are made in the Hafsid style. Luxurious finishing materials are used in the interiors of the mosque, they are decorated with columns made of pink marble and onyx, ornamental images made of colored and gilded smalt, elegant glass candlesticks. The mosaics in the mihrab are made in the traditions of the fine arts of Byzantium, Damascus, and Cordoba.

The mosque has three courtyards lined with white marble slabs. One of them is called the Lion's Yard. The fountain located there is also called Lion. Muslims can enter the mosque through one of 19 carved teak wood doors made by Kairouan craftsmen. At the main entrance there is a sign "Only muslems" ("only for Muslims"), but sometimes tours are held in the mosque, for example, for foreign exchange students. Such sightseers are usually dressed as tourists, so curious vacationers may try to get lost among them and go inside.

To the west of the mosque, near the northern wall of the ribat, there is a cemetery where the patron saint of the city of Sidi el-Mezri is buried. His tomb (kubba), crowned with a dome, is an object of worship for believers. The remains of warrior-monks who served in the fortress are also buried in the cemetery.

Through the cemetery, you can go to the mausoleum of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba, built back in 1963, at the dawn of his reign. Since then, the building has been expanded several times, and today it is a pompous, mosque-style building, decorated with white Carrara marble. A wide alley 200 meters long leads to the mausoleum, bordered by rows of slender date palms.

Inside, in a crypt under a gilded dome, the remains of Bourguiba, who died in 2000, lie in a richly decorated closed marble sarcophagus. On the sides of the main building are two smaller green domes and two 25-meter towers stylized as minarets. Under one of the domes lie the president's parents, under the other - his first wife and other relatives. There is also a small museum displaying personal belongings of the president.

Entrance to the mausoleum is free of charge, you can visit it any day from 08:00 to 20:00. The entrance to the premises is through the frame of a metal detector, video surveillance is being conducted inside.

Those who wish to learn more about the history of the life of the first president of Tunisia can go to the museum that bears his name. It is located in the eastern part of the tourist area Skanes, in a fashionable cottage village. The museum is housed in a villa that used to be the summer residence of Habib Bourguiba. The halls exhibit designer furniture from the Carthaginian presidential palace, the interiors of the private rooms of his second wife and adopted daughter are recreated. Here you can see sculptures and paintings depicting Bourguiba, gifts presented to him by the leaders of various states, photographs. At the entrance, a chic limousine of the leader of the nation, the Grosser Mersedes 600, flaunts. There are only 59 such copies in the world.

Beaches

The beach strip of Monastir stretches for almost 12 km. In the northwest, it adjoins the coastline of the resort of Sousse. The beach includes gently sloping sections along which hotels are built, there are also corners with steep banks, where lovers of secluded relaxation like to sunbathe.

Kariaa city beach, located at the foot of the ribat, is crowded during the season. Mostly they rest here. locals, and tourists do not really favor him. Seaweed often accumulates near the coast, but if you come here early in the morning, you can swim in completely clear water and appreciate the spectacular panorama of the ribat from the sea - formidable centuries-old fortifications hang right above the coast.

To the west of the city stretches the picturesque beach of La Falaise, near which there is a small park of the same name. Walking paths are broken here, benches for rest are placed in the prettiest corners under the trees. Next stretches well-equipped sandy coast tourist area Skanes. The hotels located here have their own beaches, but these are very conditional possessions, since plots of land located three meters from the sea are considered public in Tunisia and are available to everyone.

The beaches of Skanes, stretching for 9 km, are equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas. Prices for their use are set by hotels - usually from 2 dinars. The range of water activities here is wide and varied: you can go water skiing, banana boating, parasailing, kayaking, windsurfing, rent a boat and go away from the coast to scuba dive or go fishing. Equipment is offered at rental points.

Entertainment

Boat trips are one of the most popular entertainment among tourists vacationing in Monastir. From a small but very picturesque yacht port of Monastir, sailboats and boats with tourists regularly go to the open sea. Pleasure boat captains take those who wish to nearby islands, including the Kuriat archipelago. It consists of two islands with wonderful beaches.

The marina houses the city's most famous diving center, Plongee et Loisirs de Monastir. Instructors organize dives in places located 2-3 kilometers from the coast - near Pigeon Island, near the rocks of Little Rocks. Training + diving in this dive center costs about 100 €, equipment rental will cost 80 €.

The embankment in the port area is one of the most beautiful places in the city. It is always a pleasure to take a walk here, sit in one of the many fish restaurants with a magical view of the sea.

In Monastir, tourists enjoy playing golf and horseback riding. A 10-minute drive from Skanes is Monastir Flamingo Golf Cours with an 18-hole course. The cost of the round is from 100 dinars, for training (50-minute lesson) you need to pay 60 dinars per person. Near the salt lakes, surrounded by palm groves, there is another golf club - Palm Links.

In Skanes there is a ranch with sand arenas and a riding school. It organizes horse rides along the coast towards Monastir and Sousse.

Monastir has a small water park One resort aquapark, Spring Land and Adam Park amusement parks, and Carting Monastir karting center. Night clubs and discos are located only at large hotels, including: Bella Vista, Oasis. Many tourists head towards Sousse in the late afternoon, where the nightlife is more varied.

Purchases

In search of souvenirs, tourists usually go to the medina, where traditional Tunisian products are sold in small shops - ceramic dishes, handmade carpets, jewelry, clothes stylized as national costumes. In specialized shops you can buy all kinds of spices, incense, perfumes based on olive oil. There are also antique shops. But in order to choose a truly valuable thing, you will have to thoroughly “go through” the offered trinkets.

The most widely represented interesting authentic products in the market, which unfolds in the central square on Saturdays. On this day, artisans from neighboring villages come here to create original pottery and exquisitely painted ceramics with their own hands. The market also sells spectacular jewelry, inexpensive cute bags, clothing and leather accessories.

If you don't feel like wandering through the bustling markets, head to the modern four-story Yasmina Center supermarket. It is also located in the medina. Here, in addition to souvenirs, beautiful and inexpensive clothes from local manufacturers are sold. In search of beautiful beach outfits, you should look into one of the boutiques of the Paradis chain. Wonderful olive oil under the Ruspina brand, which is produced in the province of Monastir, can be bought at Monoprix, Carrefour supermarkets. In the Magasin General network (abbreviated as MG), in addition to the mentioned olive oil, you can buy local wines and other alcoholic drinks, including local fig vodka called Boukha, the famous date liqueur Thibarin.

Kitchen

The most popular cafes and restaurants of Monastir are located in the marina area. Among the most expensive establishments, the most famous are Marina The Captain, which serves delicious seafood dishes and excellent steaks, Le Grandelier with a Thousand and One Nights atmosphere and cuisine that combines French and Tunisian traditions. Lobster, mussels, shrimp, grilled fish are excellently cooked at Le Pirate, the portions are simply huge. Prices in such restaurants start from 45 dinars per person (without alcohol).

Among the budget establishments located near the sea are Marrakech with Moroccan and Mediterranean cuisine, Cap Grill, where both fish and meat are grilled. The check amount is from 15 dinars.

In the city center, you can have an inexpensive meal at the Alhambra restaurant with Tunisian cuisine. There is a wide selection of meat and fish dishes, the portions are very impressive. A full meal will cost from 30 dinars, a mixed seafood salad costs 8 dinars.

Near the Habib Bourguiba Mosque, there are several nice cafes serving Italian and Tunisian cuisine. Prices are affordable, for example, pizza will cost 10 dinars. The same amount will cost a huge burger with beef patty and mergues - traditional spicy lamb and beef sausages in a natural casing.

Where to stay

The best hotels in the Monastir resort are located in Skanes. They are located along the first coastline and have vast areas where swimming pools, tennis courts, and sports grounds are located. The most popular in this area include a four-star hotel (price range depending on the season and room class: 30-120 € per night) and five-star (price range: 40-145 € per night). Both hotels have thalassotherapy centers.

Of the three-star hotels, Regency Hotel & Spa has good reviews

Not far from the medina, there is a noteworthy three-star Monastir Center Hotel. Private beach the hotel does not, but has a spacious swimming pool. Here you can stay by paying for a room from 15 to 70 € per day. There are also two-star hotels in the center of Monastir, but the level of service in them is minimal, and there is no need to talk about the cleanliness of the rooms.

Transport

The most common transport among vacationers in Monastir is a taxi. Within the city limits, the trip costs 3 dinars. From resort area Skanes to the historical center can be reached for 5-10 dinars.

Through Monastir passes the line of ground light metro Suss - Monastir - Mahdia. Trains stop at Skanes. It's called "Airport". A trip in a comfortable train cabin from Skanes to a station located near the medina will cost 0.5 dinars. If you want to go on this type of transport in another direction - to the resort of Sousse, pay 0.8 dinars. Trains run every half hour.

How to get there

Monastir has its own airport, which bears the name of Habib Bourguiba. It was put into operation in 1968, but, despite its venerable age, the air harbor does not give up its positions, serving more than 4 million passengers a year. The airport is mainly used by airlines specializing in seasonal charters. Liners from Africa, the Middle East and Europe land here, including from Russia. Direct flights from Moscow to Monastir are carried out by the domestic airline Nordwind. Flight schedules and ticket prices depend on the time of year. The cheapest tickets are offered in January, April, October, and the most expensive - in June, July, December. The April price starts from 441 € for a round-trip ticket. The route is usually served by Airbus A320, the flight takes an average of 4 hours and 20 minutes.

From June to October, direct flights from Vnukovo Airport to Monastir are also offered by Nouvelair Tunisie. The estimated frequency of flights for 2019 is from five in June to three in October.

During the season, Nordwind and Nouvelair Tunisie airlines operate charter flights St. Petersburg - Monastir. Their frequency depends on the requests of tour operators.

Monastir Airport is located in the tourist area of ​​Skanes, 10 km from the city center. And to many beach hotels from the terminal it is easy to walk, although the path to some of them leads through the railway track. Tourists who have paid for a transfer to a hotel located 300-500 meters from the airport are usually amazed at such a “tour” when they get off the bus, especially if they have to wait more than half an hour upon arrival until all the seats are occupied in the transport cabin.

Buses and minibuses (luazhi) run regularly between the city center and the airport. The journey takes 10-15 minutes and costs up to 3.5 dinars.

Germany taxi rank

From the capital of Tunisia, Monastir can be reached by aircraft operating domestic flights. A ticket will cost from 140 dinars, depending on the season. The trip to Monastir from the city of Tunis by train runs through Sousse and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. The trains run from 05:30 to 21:00. The capital and Monastir are also connected by bus service.

During the season, tour operators often offer tourists who want to relax in Monastir to get to the resort through the modern Enfidah-Hammamet Airport, the largest in Tunisia and the second largest in Africa. About 75 km separate Enfid from Monastir, which can be overcome by bus or taxi. Buses run from 09:45 to 00:45 with an interval of an hour or more. Such long intervals are used by nosy taxi drivers waiting for tourists at the exit from the terminal building. They value their services at least 100 dinars, but with perseverance, you can negotiate for 80 dinars.

Monastir is a small quiet resort in Tunisia. 90 thousand people live here, one third of which are students.

Monastir offers inexpensive family holidays, a long wide strip of beaches, warm waters mediterranean sea, historical sights, the ancient Medina with narrow streets and shops.

History of Monastir

Monastir was founded in the 5th century BC by the Phoenicians and was named Ruspenna. In the middle of the first century AD, the city was conquered by the Romans and renamed Ruslenna.

In the fifth century, the north of modern Tunisia was captured by the Vandals and a century-long period of decline began, ending with the invasion of the Byzantine emperor Justinian I. Byzantium brought with it a revival: the city actively developed maritime trade, and the military fortress Ribat was built for protection. Warrior monks lived in it, defending the walls of the city from the enemy, and during periods of calm, they offered prayers for its inhabitants. So the city got its modern name from the Greek "monastery".

In the 7th century, the Arabs managed to oust the Byzantines, they rebuilt Medina, the heart of a medieval Arab city.

In the 16th century, the Ottoman Empire seized power. In the 9th century, the capital was moved to, and Monastir became the religious center of the country and was considered a "holy city".

In 1881-1956. The country was a colony of France. In 1956 Tunisia declared its independence.

Monastir was the birthplace of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba, who during his presidency directed more than 10% of the budget to the development of his native city.

How to get to Monastir

Monastir boasts well-developed transport links.

By plane

Monastir has its own airport, named after the first president, Habib Bourguiba. It is located 9 km from the city center, which can be reached by taxi or bus in 10-15 minutes.
A taxi ride will cost about 1.2 euros, by bus about 0.9 euros. From the hotels in the tourist area of ​​Skanes you can walk.

The airport receives international flights, including those from Russia. In terms of size and functionality, it is inferior to the new Enfid Airport in Hammamet, but it makes it possible to get to the place without transfers.
The Tunisian airline Nouvelair operates several flights from Domodedovo to Moscow and other major Russian cities during the high season. Also, direct flights and transfers are carried out by Moscow airlines. There are no direct flights from St. Petersburg to Monastir, there will be transfers in European cities. Regular flights of the road - about 90-100 thousand rubles. A charter will cost much less - from 15 thousand rubles in both directions.

Enfidha airport

You can fly to Tunisia in the city of Hammamet, which has the modern and largest Enfidhoy airport in the country. From it to Monastir 76 km, which can be overcome:

• domestic flight of the local airline Sevenair, travel time 30 min;
• by taxi, travel time 1 hour, cost about 13-16 euros;
• by bus, travel time 1.5 hours, cost 6 euros;

Tunis airport

From Tunis Carthage International Airport in Carthage to Monastir can be reached:

• domestic flight of the local airline Sevenair, travel time 50 minutes - 1 hour, cost from 40 euros;
• by taxi, travel time 2 hours, cost 18-20 euros (including toll road sections);
• by bus, travel time 2.5 - 3 hours.

By train

Getting to Monastir by train is more difficult, as there is no direct connection between Monastir and Tunis and Monastir and Hammamet. All communication goes through a major railway junction in Sousse.
From the capital, by train, you need to get to, and from there to Monastir by:

• taxi, bus (30 min, 2 euros),
• minibus (20 min, 3 euros),
• commuter train (15 min, 1 euro)

By bus

Monastir has a bus station from which you can get anywhere in the country, to any airport. There are many stops around the city, there are several in Skanes.

by car

There is car sharing in the city, you can rent a car, you will need a passport and a driving license (Russian or international). Daily rent will cost 20-35 euros.

Taxi

The easiest and fastest way to get to your destination is by taxi. Taxis can be found everywhere and take it anywhere. There is no fixed fare, you have to negotiate with the driver individually. Approximately 1 km - 1 dinar.

The beaches of Monastir

The coastline of the beaches of Monastir is not wide - no more than 30 meters. The entrance to the water is smooth, the sand is darker than in other cities of Tunisia. The beaches are not noisy, they are ideal for a measured family vacation. There are no closed beaches in Monastir, even if the beach is assigned to the hotel, everyone can relax on it.

caria

The central beach of Monastir opposite the Ribat is 700 meters long. Along it goes the Corniche. The beach is especially popular with the local population. Equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, there is a bar and a restaurant.
Attractive with clean water and no waves. Of the minuses - there are areas with a large rocky entrance, algae are not always removed quickly, a large number of vacationers.

The beaches of Skanes

They are distinguished by light sand, a very gentle entry into the water and cleanliness. They are secretly assigned to hotels that keep them in order. You can swim everywhere, even if you do not live in Skanes hotels.

Sidi Mansour beach

Located next to the central beach, belongs to the Delphin El Habib hotel.

La Falaise beach

Located near the park of the same name between Karia beach and Skanes. Due to the distance from the city center, there are few vacationers on it, the beach is clean. But there are no umbrellas, sun loungers, toilets.

Curiat Island

Gorgeous wild beaches with fine sand and clear water. You can get there by boat or sightseeing boat. The islands are uninhabited, they are inhabited by protected turtles that lay their eggs in the sand, so there are no umbrellas and sun loungers.

Time in Monastir

In Monastir, time is 2 hours behind Moscow. If in Moscow it is now 9 am, then in Monastir it is only 7. There is no time change for summer and winter in Tunisia.

Sights of Monastir

Monastir is known not only for its wonderful beach holiday, but also for the sights that you can visit.

Ribat

Ribat is the main attraction of Monastir. The ancient defensive fort fortress was erected in the distant 796 by Khartam bin Ayan. Ribat was intended to protect the city of Monastir from pagans from the North.


Unlike the Ribat in the city of Sousse, the Ribat in Monastir has undergone major restructuring over the long years of its existence. In its current form, it is almost twice as large as in its original form. Serious restoration work was carried out in Ribat in 1960.

Over the long years of its existence, the Ribat of Monastir performed not only defensive functions, but was also an important educational and religious center. Ribat performed the function of a defensive structure only a few times; in the 15th century, Ribat withstood the attacks of the Spanish fleet several times, and was subjected to significant destruction. At that time, the Ribat was a fairly powerful defensive structure armed with 30 cannons.

In the center are massive gates, entering which tourists enter the inner courtyard of the Ribat. Passing through these gates, tourists seem to be thrown into the distant past of Tunisia, conveying the whole atmosphere with the help of pantries, casemates and large halls.

Ribat Fortress has been the setting for filming scenes for films such as Monty Python's Life of Brian and Jesus of Nazareth.

On the southeast side is the Nador Tower, which rises up three floors. From its top there is a stunning view of the entire harbor, the old mosque of Monastir, the Medina, as well as the Mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba.

Currently, the Ribat houses a museum of Islamic art. Entrance to Ribat costs 7 dinars. Ribat of Monastir is a place that is definitely worth a visit.

Mausoleum of Khabib Bourguiba

The mausoleum of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba, is an important attraction of Monastir. The mausoleum is located on the territory of the ancient Muslim cemetery of Sidi El Mezri. It was built in 1963, during the lifetime of the first president.

The mausoleum is a magnificent building, decorated with a large golden dome and two small ones located on either side of it. The mausoleum is richly decorated with marble, stone carvings, corals, decorated with gold, and a large crystal chandelier gives a shining light.

Not only Khabib Bourguiba himself is buried in the mausoleum, but also his relatives: his first wife and parents.

The first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba, was born and died in Monastir. Even before he became president, Habib Bourguiba was an active political figure, he advocated for the promotion of culture, education, women's rights, the country's independence and other social reforms.

He became president in 1956 and immediately embarked on reforms for which he receives respect and honor from the citizens of Tunisia. In 1987, Habib Bourguiba was removed from power as a result of the so-called "Jasmine Revolution". He died in Monastir 13 years later, at the age of 96.

Habib Bourguib Mosque

In the city center near Ribat is the Habib Bourguiba Mosque, built in the image of the Hammoud Pasha Mosque in Tunisia, but several times larger than the latter. Construction was carried out under the leadership of President Habib Bourguiba, completed in 1963 and the mosque was named after him.

The 41-meter minaret can be seen from anywhere in the city and serves as a good guide for tourists. It has an octagonal shape, on the top floor there is a large balcony and crowned with a spire. Three white domes of the mosque are located above the prayer hall.

19 carved teak doors by Kairouan craftsmen lead inside, stained-glass windows adorn the windows. In the interior, 86 columns supporting the vaults are made of rare pink marble. The mihrab is decorated with onyx columns, gold ornaments and mosaics. The prayer hall is spacious and can accommodate up to a thousand believers at the same time.

The courtyard of the mosque is small, about 200 square meters (15x15m), surrounded by colonnades along the perimeter, creating open galleries. In the center of the courtyard is a place for washing feet.

The mosque is active, recently everyone can visit it, regardless of religion, but non-Muslims cannot enter the prayer hall.

To see the mosque, it is better to come between the prayers of Fajr (“morning prayer”) and Zuhr (“lunch prayer”) - from eight to half past twelve. And don't come on Friday.
Please note that if a “only muslems” sign hangs above the entrance, then non-Muslims are not allowed to enter.

Medina

The medina of Monastir is an ancient historical part of the city. The word Medina originated in the 9th century, when the Arabs built the city behind high stone walls that protected the inhabitants from the enemy. Medina is the city outside the walls. The streets were made narrow and winding - as additional protection from invaders. It was here that Arab urban life was once born, with its marketplaces, mosques and stone-paved pavements.

The walls of the Medina of Monastir have survived to our times better than in other cities of Tunisia. They were restored in the 17th and 18th centuries and are thick stone walls ending in battlements at the top. Each wall has a gate through which you can enter the center of the Medina:

• Bak-Brikcha gate - southern wall, 17th century;
• Curved gate, 17th century;
• Sokovnica Gate, 18th century;
• Bab El Ghatbi gate, western wall, 18th century;
• Bab Zhdid, new gate, looking at the bus station

You can go inside freely at any time of the day and for free. The medina itself is small, you can get around it in a day. In order not to get lost in the streets, you should purchase a guide.

It is leisurely walks through the labyrinths between old houses with shutters and balconies that allow you to plunge into the magical world with all your heart. Arabian fairy tale and feel the flavor of the east.

Medina has a lot of shops, shops, small markets, cafes and restaurants. You can watch the work of artisans who manually sew clothes and shoes, weave carpets, and make ceramic dishes. When buying any thing, do not forget to bargain, as this is an obligatory attribute of the eastern market.

Medina is surrounded on all sides by attractions: Ribat, Habib Bourguiba's mausoleum, the Great Mosque, the Museum of Folk Traditions.

Old Cemetery of Sidi El Mezri (Kubbu)

To the north of Ribat is a large Muslim cemetery, which has a special religious significance for believers. Who is honored to be buried here - goes to heaven.

In ancient times, warrior monks who protected the city were buried here. It was believed that one could serve in Ribat for several days and then be buried near its walls, thereby ensuring eternal bliss in paradise.

Now people come to a small mosque to pray for the recovery of sick children.

On the territory of the cemetery is the mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba. All the plates here are white, some have ancient Arabic paintings, and are turned towards Mecca.

In the 12th century, the holy imam Sidi El-Mezri was buried here, his grave is decorated with a kubba - a small square structure with a dome. The cemetery got its name in honor of the saint.

Above the entrance there is an ancient inscription saying that in the 12th century a princess named Mona lived in the city, from which the name Monastir comes.

Museums of Monastir

Museums include the Habib Bourguiba Museum, the Costume Museum and the Islamic Museum.

Museum of Habib Bourguiba

Located in Skanes near the airport of the same name. It was opened to the public in 2013. It used to serve as the residence of the first president of Tunisia, where he rested as president and spent his last years. The building was built in 1962 by Olivier Clement Kakub, and had several names: Beit Bourguiba, Skanes Palace, marble palace. The furnishings are the most exquisite from the best designers of France in the 70s.

The palace is surrounded by a high wall and guards, but everyone is allowed inside. It has a garden, swimming pool, fountain and a huge terrace on the fourth floor, the total area is 500 square meters. It contains the personal belongings of Bourguiba and his wife, brought from his presidential palace in Carthage. You can get acquainted with the situation of representative and living rooms, library, office.
At the entrance is a Mercedes-Benz limousine, in which the president traveled around the country. On the ground floor there is a marble bust of Habib, numerous gifts from the leaders of other countries, from which two giant tusks from Côte d'Ivoire immediately stand out. Here is stored a collection of photographs, recordings of speeches, archives. The total cost of the palace is estimated at 3.2 million dinars.
You can't get to the museum on foot, the nearest hotel is 2.5 km away. It is better to come by taxi, the cost of the trip is from 3 dinars. Since the museum is located separately, neither cars, nor taxis, nor buses go past it. To go back a few tips:

• walk along the road to the left 700 meters to the road, where it is already easy to catch a car;
• to the right in the neighboring cafe building, where you can call a taxi;
• if you have a local sim card, save the number of the taxi service in advance.

Entrance costs 9 dinars, photography permission - 1 dinars. Opening hours: daily from 9-00 to 17-00.

National Costume Museum

Located in the center of Monastir next to the Medina. It contains collections of national clothes, shoes, jewelry and items that characterize folk traditions Tunisia.

Some exhibits are presented as images on canvas, some in their original form. They tell the history of the country's national costumes, introduce the technique of local sewing, embroidery and painting. A unique collection of wedding dresses embroidered with precious stones enjoys increased interest.
A separate room is dedicated to traditional footwear, including leather closed-toe slippers and clogs with wooden soles.
There is a souvenir shop next to the museum. The museum is open daily except Mondays.

Islamic Museum

It is located on the territory of Ribat in the building of a former mosque. Open since 1958, from May to September - 08:00-19:00, from October to April - 09:00-17:30, every day except Monday.
There is no need to pay separately for the ticket, its cost is included in 3 dinars for the entrance to the Ribat.
The museum introduces in detail the history of Islam in Tunisia. It contains collections of ancient manuscripts and objects dating back to the birth of Islam, including the manuscript Quran. Here are collected ceramics, glass, stone, samples of fabrics and wood and bone carvings of the 4th-6th centuries, gold and silver coins, jewelry, marble sundial, Persian miniatures.
Of particular value is the astrolabe - an object for determining horizontal angles and determining the latitudes and longitudes of celestial bodies, dating back to 927.

Entertainment and recreation

Of the entertainment Monastir can offer:

• jet skis;
• windsurfing;
• diving;
• yachting - Monastir has its own yacht club;
• paragliding and parachute flight;
• children's playgrounds on the beaches;
• riding school in Skanes;
• Route de Ouerdanine Golf Club;
• water park SPONGEBOB with two swimming pools - for adults and children and a cafe;
• Spring Land children's amusement park - offers attractions for children of all ages: from very young to teenagers. There is a lot of shade from trees on the territory, there is a cafe;
• karting - you can ride from the age of 12, the track is long and difficult, a cafe is open for a snack;
• the Bateau Pirate ship offers excursions along the coast on a real pirate ship in the company of filibusters;
• night bars and discos in the hotel.

Shopping and shops of Monastir

What and where can you buy in Monastir? There are also small oriental markets and modern shopping centers.

In Medina, you can find interesting things that have absorbed the spirit of the culture of the East. Handmade products from ceramics, wood, leather, stones and metals, carpets, traditional clothes and shoes.

Everyday things and products are in shopping centers and supermarkets.

Medina

The heart of Monastir is the ancient medina with narrow winding streets, small mosques and Arab markets. The first floors of the houses are given over to benches and shops.

Local artisans work here: they weave carpets by hand, sew clothes and shoes, make jewelry, paint fabrics, make ceramics and cook oriental food. All this can be observed by plunging into the ancient life of the East. Here, all this can be purchased, be sure to bargain with the sellers.

Medina is divided into several shopping areas:

• Houmt Trabelsia market consists of jewelry shops. It sells products made of precious stones and metals.
• Houmt Charukua market - shops with goods made of genuine leather and traditional Tunisian clothing.
• Market with wicker baskets, carpets, ceramics and spices.

Every Saturday from seven in the morning until noon, a fair is open on the central square. Here you can buy fruits, spices, sweets, aromatic oils and incense.

Shopping centers in Monastir

Yasmina Center

The three-story shopping center offers a large number of goods at fixed prices. If you don't like haggling and walking around the markets, this is the place for you.

• On the ground floor - souvenirs made of wood, ceramics, perfumes, jewelry, aromatic oils;
• on the second - mostly clothes;
• on the third - leather goods: bags, wallets, shoes, jackets.

Folla

Skanes has a two-story shopping center called Folla. On the ground floor there is a large grocery supermarket offering a wide selection of products, spices and oriental sweets. On the second floor there are clothing, jewelry and souvenir shops.

Paradis

Monastir has a small local chain of small Paradis boutiques. They offer always fresh collections of locally produced beach and summer clothes. Prices are quite high, but the choice of dresses, tunics, swimwear and shorts is large.

Supermarkets

At Monoprix and General Supermarkets you will find all the usual daily items, cold drinks, ready meals and fresh baked goods. Prices are fixed, lower than in shops at hotels, it makes no sense to bargain. Alcohol is not sold on Fridays. They work late and without lunch.

Duty free Monastir Bourguiba Airport

Dutyfree Monastir is located at Habib Bourguiba Airport in the arrivals and departures area. The store is open around the clock, the choice of goods is large, the prices are in euros and are comparable to Russian ones.

Monastir transport

In the city, it is convenient to use minibuses and taxis to get around. Buses and fixed-route taxis do not have a number indicating the route. Instead, there is an inscription in Arabic with the destination. Therefore, you will have to ask the driver about the point of arrival.

The bus and taxi rank is located at the western gate of the Medina. The fare is paid in cash to the conductor or driver. It is better to enter the bus through the back door, there is a conductor. You can stop the bus and taxi in the city anywhere with a wave of your hand.

For intercity communication, you can use:

• by rail - the Sahel metro line - connects, Monastir and
• intercity buses

Picturesque Harbor

After long sightseeing, you can walk along the stunning promenade and find yourself in the quiet harbor of Port de Plaisance. This place is best visited in the evening to enjoy an unforgettable sunset and enjoy the sounds of yachts rocking on the waves.
Directly behind the harbor is the best resort complex of the city of Villa Touristik, which includes luxurious luxury hotels.

Skanes

Skanes is a tourist area between Monastir and 10 km long. From one side of Skanes to the medina of Monastir 6 km, on the other to the medina of Sousse - 7 km. The resort is considered a continuation of Monastir, stretched into a narrow strip between the seashore and the salt lake near the Habib Bourguiba airport. The close location of the airport is a big plus, as the hotels can be reached on foot.

When buying a charter, make sure that the flight arrives at the airport “Habib Bourguiba International Airport” (code “MIR”) in Monastir. So it is possible to arrive at Enfid Airport (code “NBE”), in Hammamet, which is 78 km from Monastir.
Skanes offers a wide range of hotels, from economy class to luxury suites, most of which are located on the first line. The most famous are Thalassa Hotels, Houda Hotels, TUI Magic Life. They have swimming pools, tennis courts, playgrounds for basketball, karting, paintball, animators work.
The beaches in Skanes are not very wide, with a gentle entrance to the sea, with light sand. They will be ideal for families with small children, and may seem too small for adults, since even the buoys can touch the bottom. The hotels are assigned sections of the beaches on which they monitor cleanliness.
The holiday season in Skanes falls on May-September, when the water warms up to 29 degrees. Jellyfish often appear in August.
Of the shortcomings or, conversely, the advantages of Skanes, it is worth pointing out the lack of discos, water parks, shops and cafes. To do this, you will have to visit Monastir or a noisier one, since they are very close.
Everyone who wants to visit a wonderful city in Tunisia, just take a look at the breathtaking photos of the beaches, sights, nature, the cleanest sea and the Monastir area, and you will definitely fall in love with this city, and when you visit, you will be impressed.

The city of Monastir is surrounded on all sides by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea, and the lion's share of the city's territory is occupied by beaches. In fact, it is the beaches that attract most tourists here. However, for those who come not only for sunbathing, Monastir is ready to offer much more.

For example, Ribat, located right on the coast, is one of the main Tunisian monuments of the Islamic era. Very close to Ribat is the magnificent mausoleum of Habib Bourguib, the first president of Tunisia. This building is an example of a harmonious mixture of traditional and modern Tunisian architecture.

Ribat

The most famous landmark of Monastir is located right by the sea. The Ribat of Monastir was built by Hartham ben Ayan in 796. Movie lovers will immediately recognize familiar features in this building: Monty Python's Life of Brian and several episodes of Franco Zeffirelli's Jesus of Nazareth were filmed here. Ribat in Monastir is one of the oldest fortresses in North Africa, along with Ribat in Sousse.

The southeastern side of the fortress is decorated with a three-story Nador tower, from the top of which a magnificent view of the harbor, the main mosque of Monastir, the Bourguib Mausoleum and the Medina opens.

An imposing gate in the western part of the Ribat leads to a courtyard surrounded on three sides by several floors of living quarters, storerooms and casemates, and the former prayer hall on the top floor now houses the Museum of Islam.

Photos of Ribat Monastir

Mausoleum of Khabib Bourguib (Mausoleum)

The giant mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba is located on the northern edge of the old cemetery. Its splendor, crowned with a golden dome, is a tribute to the first, after gaining independence from France, the president of Tunisia.

The building was erected in 1963 and houses the bodies of the former president and his family. Two twenty-five-meter minarets directed to the sky are made of Italian marble, and the facade is decorated with handmade tiles. The tomb itself is located under a stunning chandelier, in the middle of an interior shining with an abundance of glass decor.

Photo of the mausoleum of Bourguiba

Bourguiba Mosque

Monastir is the hometown of Habib Bourguib, which is why a mosque named after him was erected here. The architect Taieb Bouzguenda built the mosque in 1963. It was built on the model of the Hamud Pasha mosque in Tunisia and boasts a 41-meter-high octagonal minaret and a prayer hall that can accommodate up to a thousand people.

Nearby, on Rue Trabelsia, you can find the Musée du Mouvement National (Museum of the National Movement), dedicated to the history of Tunisia's struggle for independence from France.
Location: Rue de'l Independance

Photo mosque Bourguiba

Medina

The medina of Monastir (the old city) was painstakingly restored, but unfortunately much of its authentic charm was lost in the process of restoration. However, this area remains a great place for leisurely walks, especially if the beach is too hot. Market streets encourage endless shopping: handmade ceramics, leather and wood products, and silver are here.

Photo Medina Monastir

Muslim cemetery

In the northwest, just outside the walls of the Ribat, there is a cemetery. Its territory is strewn with a huge number of elegant ancient tombs. Many of them are decorated with faience tiles and painted in a circle with Kufic inscriptions. The tomb of Sidi el Mazeri, which was built in the 12th century, deserves special attention.

Photo cemetery Monastir

Harbor

A picturesque promenade (called the Corniche) leads to the Port de Plaisance, where yachts sway sedately on the waves of the Mediterranean Sea. This is the best place for an evening walk at sunset. Just behind the harbor is the modern resort complex Village Touristique. There are local luxury hotels.

Photo harbor Monastir

Skanes

Skanes - the northern suburb of Monastir - is filled with expensive, dazzling white villas and luxurious hotels, rebuilt according to the canons of Tunisian architecture. Here are located best beaches Monastir, and the road to the tourist area of ​​the town runs near the former presidential palace, hidden behind high walls and wrought iron gates.

Skanes Photos

The beaches of Monastir

Many consider the main attraction of Monastir to be its beaches with fine white sand. The city itself seems to be in the arms of the coast, surrounded by beaches on three sides. Perfect cleanliness is maintained on all beaches here, on all beaches there are toilets, showers, as well as restaurants, cafes, rental of umbrellas and sunbeds.

Some beaches are also equipped for activities. water sports sports or offer rental of boats and boats - for those who are bored with just lying in the warm sun.

Photo Beaches of Monastir

costume museum

A small museum located in tourist office Monastir (ONTT), exhibits a collection of wedding dresses from all over Tunisia.
Address: ONTT Building, Rue de l'Independance

Main mosque

The mosque was built in the 9th century, and in the 11th century it was completed by the Zirid dynasty. It is located a little south of Ribat.

Sidi Dhouib Ribat

The small Ribat Sidi Dhouib is located between the main mosque and the Medina. Its first floor was rebuilt and restored.

Monine (Moknine)

The small town of Monaine was built on the shores of a salt lake and is famous for its high-quality ceramics and fine jewelry. In the city center there is a folklore museum, which occupied the former mosque of Sidi Babana. It is known not only for its exposition, but also for the original architecture of the building, which is an example of the “Tubi Fitilli” (Roman brick vaults) found in the Bulla Regia.
Location: 15km south of Monastir

Monastir on the map

History of Monastir

Salt lakes in Tunisia are the largest representatives of their kind in the world. Their area exceeds 7000 square meters.

Almost all year round, with rare exceptions, there is no water in the lakes, and then tourists are presented with a mysterious, to some extent unearthly beauty created by salt crystals. Since the lakes are located in the northern part of the Sahara Desert, a strong dry wind constantly blows here, so when going here, you should take care of protection from sand.

The local population near the lakes earns by selling salt roses to tourists, created by nature itself with the help of the wind.

Coordinates: 33.92513000,7.87719700

Mausoleum of Khabib Bourguiba

The mausoleum of Habib Bourguiba is located in the city of Monastir, opposite the Ribat fortress. The mausoleum is dedicated to the President of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba.

This memorial complex was built in 1963. Since its construction, it has been expanded several times. The mausoleum began to be built during the life of Habib Bourguiba. It was erected at the burial place of the servants of Ribat.

The building has a golden dome, carved stone walls decorated with corals and blue ceramics, two high minarets and bronze gates. Near the mausoleum, richly decorated both outside and inside, you can see guardsmen of the guard of honor. Next to the sarcophagus of Habib Bourguiba are the burial places of his close relatives. There is a museum in the building, where photographs of the president of different years, his clothes and personal belongings are exhibited.

Coordinates: 35.77767100,10.82870000

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Monastir beach

The main value of Monastir, the resort town of Tunisia, is its beaches. All coastline, which belongs to the city, is landscaped, and numerous hotels and other tourist infrastructure are attached to it.

Monastir Beach is considered the "most-most": it is the longest - it stretches along the coast for more than 12 kilometers, the most famous, the most popular, the most fashionable. Hotels built along it divided the beach into small areas and compete with each other in design and amenities.

In general, Monastir is almost an ideal option. budget holiday: the sand on the beach is fine and white, the terrain is flat, the sea is picturesque, the climate is warm.

Coordinates: 35.78091700,10.80100500

Le Grill Restaurant offers Tunisian as well as international cuisine. Tunisian grilled steak is amazing here.

The interior of the establishment is quite simple, but neat, and the food is exquisite, everything is prepared only from fresh and high-quality products.

The menu of this restaurant is varied, the atmosphere is conducive to a pleasant stay. Le Grill is most suitable for family dining. The staff is friendly, the waiters speak English. The prices of the dishes are quite consistent with their quality.

Coordinates: 35.77910700,10.83174100

Medina of Monastir

When traveling to Tunisia, be sure to visit the Medina and the Great Mosque of Monastir. Medina is the old part of the city. You can wander through the narrow streets with blue and white houses and feel the amazing atmosphere of the Arab world.

The territory of the Medina is surrounded by battlements, almost completely restored in the 17th and 18th centuries, you can go inside through the gates, of which there are only five, although there were originally twelve.

The beaches of Skanes

Skanes is a beautiful Tunisian resort that stretches along the coast for 6 km. This resort area offers a variety of recreation, ranging from active nightlife, with a variety of nightclubs for every taste, to cozy open-air cafes with coffee, hookah, amazing, exotic drinks.

The atmosphere of ease and lightness reigns in Skanes, everyone will find a suitable activity in this beautiful place. Possible boat trips and horseback riding, places with historically valuable monuments, scuba diving and a golf course - all these activities are located either in the resort itself or in its immediate vicinity.

There are many hotels in this resort with different numbers of stars, different features and zest, so everyone can choose something suitable for themselves: a secluded place or a noisy, first-class room or an inexpensive but quality option.

The resort is decorated in a very interesting style: the developers resorted to old architectural techniques, which is why the resort takes us back in time and creates a wonderful traditional atmosphere of Tunisia in its old days.

Coordinates: 35.77040200,10.71385900

Habib Bourguiba Mosque

In Monastir, there is a mosque built in honor of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba. The spacious prayer hall can accommodate up to a thousand worshipers. The interior is decorated with pink marble columns. The building was erected in 1963 - the mosque of Hammoud Pasha in the city of Tunisia was taken as a model.

Coordinates: 35.77437600,10.83050300

Monastir Marina

This is probably the busiest place in all of Monastir. And this is justified, because here, in addition to beautiful and often very unusual yachts, you can see the art of tattooists who work on the coast. By the way, Marina is even famous for the fact that the best tattoo artists of the city work here.

You can also have lunch at any of the restaurants that operate on the pier and taste dishes of Tunisian, French, Italian and other cuisines, in almost every one of them you can smoke a hookah.

From here you can also take a tour to Kuriat Island where you can go diving, fishing, have a picnic or even barbecue.

And, of course, you can not ignore the most popular entertainment: boat rental. From the boat you can enjoy the picturesque panorama of the city and the landscape of the sea.

Coordinates: 35.77960300,10.83313900

The most popular attractions in Monastir with descriptions and photos for every taste. choose best places for visiting famous places Monastery on our website.

More sights of Monastir

The tourist zone of Skanes, taken out of the city, has allowed to preserve the authentic atmosphere of the city, where life flows in the same way as during the time of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba. The head of state was born in Monastir and chose to rest here - as evidenced by the extravagant mausoleum, one of the most visited monuments of the city.

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How to get to Monastir

Air traffic in international airport Monastir named after Habib Bourguiba has decreased significantly with the opening of a new airport in Enfid, but direct charters from Russia still land here. The Tunisian carrier Nouvelair operates several flights a week during the season from Moscow Domodedovo and other cities of our vast country. If you landed in Enfid or the capital's Tunis-Carthage airport, you can fly to Monastir on a domestic flight of the local airline Sevenair, which operates at least one flight a day between Tunis and Monastir. Travel time - 1 hour.

Monastir Airport is located directly in the tourist area of ​​Skanes, 9 km from the city center. Some hotels are literally within walking distance; a taxi ride to the most remote will not take more than 5 minutes.

Flying up to Monastir, be sure to enjoy the view of multi-colored reservoirs for evaporating salt and, in winter, flocks of pink flamingos.

Inside the country, Monastir can be reached by minibus, "luage", intercity bus or train. There are two railway lines here - a large one connects Monastir with large remote cities, a small one, the so-called "metro du Sahel" - with Sousse and Mahdia, as well as a mass of villages on the way along the coast.

The main transport hub of the region is the city of Sousse, where "long-distance" buses, minibuses and trains stop. In this case, it is easy to get from Sousse to Monastir by taxi - 20 minutes and about 15 TND or a local "luage" with a payment of 1.2 TND.

Search flights to Monastir

Transport in the city

The historical center of the city - the medina, the ribat, the mausoleum of Bourguiba and the yacht port can be seen on foot. If you are less hardy or just do not like to move on your own two, yellow taxis with a luminous number plate on the roof are waiting for you. Payment by meter; in general, within Monastir, the trip will cost no more than 3 TND, and the hotels of the Skanes resort area can be reached for 5-10 TND.

Also at the service of vacationers are steam locomotives plying from Monastir to Sousse via Skanes, tuk-tuks and horse-drawn carts. The cost is discussed with the driver before boarding, in general they ask about 5-15 TND.

Maps of Monastir

Weather forecast for Monastir

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Monastir Hotels

The number of rooms in the urban part of Monastir is for the most part not the newest multi-storey "three" with some interspersed with "fours", standing across the road from the sea. There is also a small number of very urban “triples” and “twos” - very budgetary, but also with an appropriate set of services.

In Skanes, the picture is much more fun - family "three-stars", a large selection of high-quality "fours" with very decent service, and several excellent "five" with magnificent thalassotherapy centers.

Sea and sun

The beaches of Monastir cannot be called outstanding - especially against the background of more successful in terms of "sandy nature" Hammamet, Mahdia or the island of Djerba. Accumulations of algae are not uncommon here, and the northern orientation of the coast of Skanes is expressed in frequent unrest in the water surface. So it is better for those who seek the perfect sea to pay attention to other resorts in the country. But budget travelers without any special claims to the transparency of the water and the gentle descent into the water should like it here.

The beaches of Skanes hotels are protected more or less carefully, but the local population willingly and successfully penetrates the beaches of hotels in the city. Public beaches in the season (for example, opposite the Ribat) are overcrowded to the envy of the Crimean resorts. However, if you come to Ribata beach early in the morning, you can enjoy a rare feeling - you emerge, and right in front of you rises a 12-century-old hulk.

5 things to do in Monastir

1. Climb to observation deck Ribat and survey the surroundings of the city almost from a bird's eye view.
2. See what is the right approach to the transition to another world, in the mausoleum of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba.
3. Have lunch at one of the fish restaurants in the cozy yacht port.
4. Stock up on souvenirs for the home, for the family in the 4-storey Yasmina Center.
5. Go early in the morning to the salt evaporation ponds and admire the pink flocks of flamingos.

Cuisine and restaurants of Monastir

The best restaurants of Monastir are concentrated in the port of pleasure yachts - a pretty little marina. Here you can try all kinds of fish and seafood dishes, get acquainted with the national cuisine in the form of salads, pies-briks, shorba soup, couscous and sweets, as well as refresh yourself with pan-European cooking - like spaghetti, pizza and sandwiches.

Also, do not neglect the "folk" restaurants in the city center - the food here is often tastier than in tourist-oriented establishments, and the dishes cost mere pennies. Useful tip: focus on the number of local people at the tables: they certainly won’t dine in a bad place.

Shopping and shops

Souvenirs from Monastir are no different from the general Tunisian ones: the same ceramics, leather and wooden products, pseudo-national clothes, cosmetic products based on olive oil and various trinkets, such as key chains, postcards and bonfires. All this can be bought at a fixed price in the largest souvenir supermarket - the four-story Yasmina Center, which is located in the medina of Monastir. The olive oil of the popular brand Ruspina is produced here - you should go to the supermarkets General, Monoprix and Carrefour for it.

Monastir

Entertainment and attractions of Monastir

In addition to the sights of the city of Monastir itself, vacationers at this resort have rich opportunities for visiting excursions, since the city is located almost at an equal distance from the sights of the capital and the sands of the Sahara, and the magnificent Roman amphitheater in El Jem is within easy reach.

In Monastir, first of all, it is worth visiting the medina - the old city. Its main architectural monuments are the Great Mosque (9th century), marble columns for the construction of which were taken from the ruins of ancient Roman Ruspina, and fortress walls with historical gates: the western Bab el-Gharbi were built in 15th century by the Gafsid dynasty, the northeastern Bab- Tunisia saw the light at the end of the 18th century, and the southern Bab-Briksha - the creation of the Ottoman Turks at the end of the 17th century. Located near the eastern wall of the medina, the Museum of National Costume deserves a cursory inspection. The superbly preserved Ribat is an example of military Islamic architecture of the 8th-11th centuries. Once it was a haven for the Murabitin monks, who divided their lives between serving God and repelling the onslaught of enemies. Multiple reconstructions and additions have led to a very intricate structure of the corridors and halls of the Ribat. The prayer hall houses the Museum of Islamic Art.

A panoramic view of the city and the coast opens from the Ribat observation tower - do not be too lazy to overcome several dozen steep steps.

Mausoleum of Khabib Bourguiba is another architectural dominant of the city. A wide alley leads to the building with a golden dome and two minarets, and on both sides of it there is a city cemetery. Inside are marble sarcophagi of members of the Bourguiba family and a small museum displaying the personal belongings of the first president of Tunisia. The massive marble sarcophagus of Bourguiba itself with magnificent carvings and gold inlays is located in the central hall of the mausoleum, crowned with a dome. You can look at it from the inner balcony of the 2nd floor.

Bourguiba began to build his mausoleum long before his death - he accepted architectural projects, selected materials and planned the territory. This is what it means to be serious!

• What excursions can you go on on your own from Monastir

A distinctive feature of recreation in the Skanes area is the lack of entertainment within walking distance: tourists have to be content with either hotel animation or take a taxi to Sousse.

Leisure

Golf, horseback riding and scuba diving are the three main sports "chips" of Monastir. There are 2 world class golf courses in Skanes - Flamingo Golf Course and Golf Club Palm Links, both 18 holes. Landscape - olive and palm groves, hills, sand "bunkers" and lakes. The clubs have golf academies and 9-hole driving ranges.

Diving in Monastir is not as luxurious as, say, in Tabarka, but there is something to see underwater. The coast is predominantly sandy with small rocky areas, depths are from 5 to 20 m. In the waters of several uninhabited islands near the coast, it is convenient to observe shallow-water fauna: here you can see reefs and grottoes, see starfish, sea ​​urchins, sponges and various algae.

Horse riding fans are welcome at the Skanes ranch. At their service are several sandy arenas, greenery and training grounds. There is a riding school, and for those who know how to stay in the saddle, horseback riding is offered along the coast - to Monastir or Sousse.

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