Hammamet - History and Modernity
Description:
A sightseeing tour of Hammamet is a great opportunity to see all the best in this ancient Tunisian city, to get acquainted with its rich history and interesting culture.
The tour begins at the fortress wall of Medina, a traditional Arab settlement. Through one of its gates - the Sea Gate - we enter the ancient territory of Hammamet and head to the powerful Arab fort of the 9th century, built to protect the coast from pirate invasions. Stairs inside the fort lead to the top of its defensive walls, offering dizzying views of Hammamet Bay, neat houses of the inhabitants of the medina and a tourist area with modern hotel complexes. And in the courtyard of the fortress there is a small interesting museum dedicated to the life of the residents of Hammamet, their wedding traditions and holidays.
Our journey continues through the labyrinth of narrow medina streets, where richly decorated doors and lush flowering bougainvilleas create a magnificent backdrop for photo shoots.
The Museum of History of Hammamet fascinatingly introduces the chronicle of the city’s life rich in various events. Mannequins represent significant historical events and scenes from urban life. The ancient Roman settlement of Pupput and the coming of the Arabs, the history of the patron saint of the sailors Sidi-bu-Hdida and the conquest of the city by the Sicilians, the Turkish invasion and the power of the Knights of Malta are just some milestones in the history of Hammamet. And here you can see how floral distillates are made from Flourdorange and embroidered wedding robes.
The tour again returns to the picturesque streets of the medina - here you can buy souvenirs, and your guide will tell you what to look for, and bargain for you favorite things at a price "for locals".
During a tea break in Hammamet's most famous coffee shop Sidi-bu-Hdid (it is located right at the resting place of the saint!), you can try traditional Tunisian tea with pine nuts, refresh yourself with orange juice or smoke a fragrant hookah. Well, if you order a sandwich or pancake, be prepared for the close attention of Sidi-Bu-Hdidi cats.
But Hammamet is also a rich Christian history. In French times, a Catholic church was opened here, and a significant proportion of the European population here is evidenced by the Christian cemetery, where, among others, former Italian Prime Minister Bettino Craxi rests.
Next, we will walk along the picturesque promenade along the sea and will be able to buy edible (and very tasty!) souvenirs of Tunisia - sweets, dates, halva, spicy red pepper paste "charissa" and olive oil.