Tunisia, which is Africa's northernmost country, has been attracting 'sun and sea' visitors to its still thriving Mediterranean coastline resorts of Sousse and Hammamet since the 1960s.

In recent decades Tunisia has developed its visitor offering to embrace the varied landscapes, ancient architecture, souks, cultural identity and culinary roots.

The capital, Tunis, is located on the Mediterranean Sea Gulf of Tunis, and has given the country its name. Its ancient medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Ancient history

Tunisia has a rich history influenced by the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Byzantines and the Arab and Berber kingdoms.

It also came under Ottoman rule from the 16th to the late 19th centuries.

The archaeological sites of Carthage is a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 9th century BC.

El Djem Amphitheatre is a Roman amphitheatre from the Roman and Byzantine eras, and the National Bardo Museum, Tunis, houses a major collection of Roman mosaics.

Landscapes

Tunisia also takes in part of the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara desert, and Grand Erg Oriental, which forms part of the Sahara Desert, offers the chance to experience the desert.

The island of Djerba is known for its beaches, traditional villages, and ancient ruins.

Sidi Bou Said is a clifftop village known for its blue and white buildings and views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Language

The official language of Tunisia is Arabic, although French and English are widely spoken.

www.discovertunisia.com