Monastir, Tunisia
Museums
If you're in Monastir and interested in museums, a must-visit is the Ribat of Monastir. It's an ancient fortress built-in 796 AD and has now been converted into a museum. You can find various artifacts from Tunisia's rich history, including Roman and Islamic civilizations.
Other nearby museums that might interest you include:
- Sousse Archaeological Museum
- Dar Am Taieb Museum in Sousse
- Museum of Islamic Art in Raqqada
All these museums are located within a 30-kilometer radius from Monastir.
Food
Monastir has a variety of delicious Tunisian dishes that are popular among locals. Here are some of the most recommended and typical dishes to try:
1. Brik: A crispy pastry filled with an egg, tuna, and harissa paste.
2. Couscous: A staple dish in Tunisia made with semolina flour, vegetables, and meat or fish.
3. Lablabi: A popular breakfast dish made with chickpeas, bread, garlic, and spices.
4. Mechouia: A salad made with grilled vegetables such as bell pepper, tomatoes, onions, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices.
5. Ojja: A spicy tomato-based sauce with eggs, meat, and seafood.
6. Makroudh: A sweet pastry made with dates and semolina dough fried and coated with honey.
7. Mloukhiya: A stew made with mallow leaves, chicken, and spices.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious Tunisian dishes you can enjoy in Monastir.
Activities
Sure! Here are some fun activities that local people enjoy in Monastir, Tunisia:
1. Relaxing on the beach: Monastir has beautiful beaches such as Skanes and Mahdia where you can relax and enjoy the sun and sea.
2. Exploring the Medina: The old town of Monastir is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with narrow streets, traditional architecture, and local markets selling souvenirs, spices, and handicrafts.
3. Visiting the Ribat: The Ribat of Monastir is not only a museum but also a unique historical monument that offers stunning views of the city from its rooftop.
4. Playing golf: Monastir is known for its world-class golf courses such as Flamingo Golf Course and Palm Links Golf Course.
5. Enjoying water sports: You can try water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or parasailing at the various beach resorts in Monastir.
6. Sampling local cuisine: Tunisian food is delicious, and Monastir has plenty of restaurants serving traditional dishes like couscous, brik, and grilled fish.
7. Attending festivals: Monastir hosts several annual festivals like the International Festival of Sufi Music and the Monastir International Film Festival where locals and visitors alike can enjoy music, films, and cultural events.
