Tunisia is an amazing country that attracts with the charm of huge beaches with fine sand, a wealth of cultural and historical values \u200b\u200binherited from past civilizations.

Geographical location of Tunisia.

Tunisia is a small Arab state in northern Africa, one of the countries of the Arab Maghreb. In the south it borders with Libya, in the west with Algeria, in the north and east it is washed by the waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

The length of the coastline is about 1300 km, which is approximately equal to the length of the land borders. In the east of Tunisia, the shores are low and gentle, and in the north - high, in places steep. The islands of Zembra, Kuriat, Kerkenna, Djerba are located along the coast. The largest is the island of Djerba, located off the southern part of the coast.

The area of \u200b\u200bTunisia is 164.1 thousand sq. km. This is almost 5 times smaller than the territory of Morocco and 16 times smaller than Algeria. The country's length from north to south is 800 km, while its average width is only 150 km.

In shape, the territory of Tunisia resembles a bird's wing. It is no coincidence that the inhabitants of the Maghreb countries like to compare the entire Maghreb with a bird, whose body is formed by Algeria, and the wings - Morocco and Tunisia.

The east coast, with its mild climate and fine sandy beaches, is a great place to relax. It is no coincidence that the main tourist centers of the country are located here: Tunisia with its suburbs and Nabul - in the northern part of the Gulf of Hammamet; and - in the southern part of the bay. Sousse is called the "pearl of the Sahel" for its magnificent beaches and tourist complexes.

Capital: Tunisia, the largest city in the country (about 2 million people)

Tunisia climate.

Tunisia has a temperate climate with occasional rainfall, and a Mediterranean climate makes the east coast and the island of Djerba an almost year-round swimming destination. Due to the low humidity, heat in Tunisia is tolerated relatively easily.

Tabarca and northern Tunisia are climatically similar to the southern European Mediterranean coast. In winter, it can be uncomfortable here, as it rains for a long time, although the temperature rarely drops below + 18 ° C.

The high season is from June to September. In the central steppes and in the south of Tunisia in summer, the temperature exceeds + 40 ° C, which only especially "heat-resistant" people can withstand.

The ideal time of the year for traveling inland of Tunisia, as well as for expeditions to the Sahara, is spring and autumn, with moderately hot days and cold nights. In the desert, temperatures at this time can drop below freezing at night, and therefore tourists are advised to have warm clothes and a good sleeping bag.

The nature of Tunisia.

The nature of Tunisia is pleasing to the eye. In the bays along the east coast, colonies of white and pink flamingos live, which with their curved beaks scour the shallow waters in search of food. Dolphins can often be seen frolicking in coastal waters.

Even more exotic is the fauna in the south of Tunisia. Travelers rarely see gazelles and hyenas, but they will surely meet jerboas and long-eared chanterelles. Various types of snakes and scorpions avoid humans.

The vegetation of the Mediterranean coast of Tunisia delights with its beauty and diversity. Hibiscus, rose hips, multi-colored bougainvilleas and the symbol of the country - jasmine bloom in the gardens and wind up the walls. And in summer, poppies bloom in the steppes. The oases of Tunisia are famous for their beautiful olive and date palm plantations. Both have been cultivated for thousands of years.

Population of Tunisia.

Tunisia has a population of about 9 million, two thirds of whom live on the fertile lands of the northern and central regions of Tunisia. And about 10% have either dual citizenship or permanently reside outside the country, arriving only from time to time.

Numerous Berber tribes live in the south of the country. A small number of Europeans also live in Tunisia. And on the island of Djerba there is the largest Jewish community with about a thousand members.

Religion in Tunisia.

The state religion of Tunisia is Sunni Islam, which is professed by about 95% of the population. But Tunisia compares favorably with other Arab countries for its religious tolerance. Muslims live in peace with Christians and Jews. Any manifestation of religious intolerance is strictly punishable by law.

Language.
The state language in Tunisia is Arabic. Although the Tunisian dialect of Arabic is very specific, as it is heavily saturated with words borrowed from French. And this is not surprising, since the second most common language is French. Also Tunisians working in tourism, as a rule, speak English and German quite well. Rarely enough Russian-speaking employees come across in hotels.

Currency.
The monetary unit is the Tunisian dinar, it is divisible by 1000 millimeters. Coins in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 millimeters, banknotes of 5, 10 and 20 dinars are in use. Banknotes of the same denomination can be of different designs and differ in size and color. The rate fluctuation is minimal: 1 TV - 1 $. Currency, checks, credit cards are accepted without restrictions. Currency exchange offices are constantly open in tourist places, airports and hotels.

Time.
Time in Tunisia is 2 hours behind Moscow time in winter and 3 hours behind in summer.

Rules of entry to Tunisia.

The visa is put in the passport directly at the Tunis airport free of charge. Import of foreign currency is not limited, national currency is prohibited. The export of imported foreign currency is allowed. In addition to tobacco products and alcohol intended for personal consumption, a tourist can bring into the country 100 cigars or 400 cigarettes, 2 liters of alcoholic beverages with a strength of up to 23% or 1 liter of stronger drinks, as well as gifts worth up to 25 TV. Photo and video equipment is not subject to customs duty: more expensive technical equipment, for example, personal computers, is marked in the passport upon entering the country. Fines are imposed for the transport or possession of weapons, radio equipment, drugs or pornographic writings. Tourists who have bought "antiquities" (coins, oil lamps) may encounter difficulties when leaving the country. Most Tunisian artisan products are exempt from customs duties.

The medicine.
A special vaccination certificate is not required when visiting Tunisia. The most important rules for a tourist arriving in Tunisia is to thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits and not drink raw tap water. Sturdy boots can help protect your feet from snake and scorpion bites in excavation sites.

Political structure of Tunisia.

Freed from French dependence in 1957, Tunisia became a presidential republic. In 1994. fairly fair and free elections were held, as a result of which the president was appointed
Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. The legislature of Tunisia is the People's Assembly. Formally, Tunisia now has a multi-party system, 8 parties are officially registered, including the Communist Party of Tunisia, which was banned until recently. However, the ruling pro-presidential party has real power in parliament.

Electricity.
In large hotels, the mains voltage is 220V. Adapters and devices switched to 11O V are used only in old hotels.

Transport of Tunisia.

Local airline "Tuninter" operates flights between the main cities of the country (Tunisia, Monastir, Sfax, Tozeur, Tabarka, Djerba island).

Any part of the country can be reached by bus. You can also use the services of a special intercity minibus taxi, the cost of which must be negotiated in advance.

For trips to another city, the so-called "big taxi" (payment by the meter) is also intended, within the same settlement they use yellow taxis.

There is a tram type transport called TGM (according to the first letters of the main destinations that can be reached with its help - Tunis - La Goullet - La Marsa). Also, this type of transport can be used to travel to Salammbô, Carthage and Sidi Bou Said.

Car rental in Tunisia.

Car rental in Tunisia is an expensive pleasure: a small car costs about 100 TVs a day. The prices set by the local rental offices are slightly lower. International car rental companies have offices at the airports of Tunisia, Monastir, Houmt Souk and at hotels.
Tunisia has European road traffic regulations. In cities, the speed is limited to 50 km / h, on the roads - 90 km / h, on highways 110 km / h. The driver's license must be issued no later than a year ago. The car is rented to drivers over 21 years old.

It is not known exactly where the name came from, there are many versions. The first assumption is that from the Berber root "tns" means "lie down" or "camp". The second curious version is that the name came from the name of the goddess Tanit (or Tunit), who was worshiped in Carthage.

A very interesting version is that the name was formed from the word "tuna" or "tun", meaning tuna fish. Of course, a lot of tuna is caught here, cans of canned tuna are one of them, along with olive oil. It is likely that the country may have been named after one of its main export products.

The population of the country is almost 11 million people. There are fewer people in Tunisia than in Moscow.

The area of \u200b\u200bthe country is 163,600 square kilometers. This is comparable to the area of \u200b\u200bthe Perm Territory or the Tyumen Region.

Tunisia is the record holder in Africa and the Arab world in terms of the number of students, there are 350-400 thousand of them here.

Accordingly, Tunisia leads Africa in terms of the percentage of people with higher education.

Tunisia has a very small army - only 27,000 men, 84 main and 48 light tanks. The fleet consists of only 25 small patrol ships.

There are far more police officers (pictured on the right) in the country than military ones. By the way, taking photos of the police in Tunisia is prohibited.

The highest point in Tunisia is Mount Jabel ich Chambi, 1544 meters high.

Tunisia has very low urbanization, 67% of the population lives in cities. For comparison, in Russia it is 73.7%.

Average life expectancy for men is 73.2 years, for women 77.4 years. For comparison, in Russia 65.9 and 76.7 years.

Tunisia has 1148 kilometers of coastline, which contributed to the development of tourism in the country, let's talk about the tourism industry in detail.

Tunis Tourism

Tourism provides the country with 7% of GDP and employs 370,000 Tunisians. Until 2011, the tourism industry experienced rapid growth, the number of visitors arriving annually was already approaching 10 million, but the revolution scared tourists, and the economic crisis forced many to abandon seaside vacations for financial reasons. Now Tunisia receives 5-6 million tourists a year.

Another priority direction for the authorities is golf, because golfers prefer autumn and spring, when it is not so hot yet. It has become the main center of golf tourism in the country, and the second center will soon become Yasmine Hammamet, where 4 more golf courses are being built. Another interesting group of tourists for the country is yachtsmen. Almost every Tunisian resort has a marina (a small port for yachts).

And another important area is sightseeing rest. Tunisia is rich in sights of the Roman Empire era:,.

The Arab and Ottoman periods of the country's history have left their interesting sights:, Medina of Sousse, Kairouan,. There are 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country. The authorities are trying to create conditions for winter excursion tourism, but the results are still modest.

Holidays in Tunisia have many other advantages. superior in quality to alcohol in hotels in Turkey or Egypt. The variety of dishes at the All Inclusive buffets is greater than in the aforementioned competing countries. The sandy beaches are among the best in the Mediterranean.

The weaknesses of the tourism industry in Tunisia are called a narrow set of entertainment facilities. There are only three large water parks in the resorts:, and. There are no water parks in Southern Tunisia at all. Other points of interest:, and on Djerba, that's all.

There are advantages for Russian tourists: a small and visa-free regime. The main disadvantage for Russians is the very poor knowledge of the Russian language by Tunisians. Often in hotels there is simply no staff who speaks tolerably Russian. In this case, only the hotel guide will help.

Another disadvantage for tourists from Russia is that there are no direct regular flights between our countries, which makes independent rest in Tunisia difficult.

Arabs live in Tunisia. Are they Arabs? (population)

Officially, the nationality of the inhabitants is called “Tunisians”, but they themselves identify themselves as Arabs. They speak Tunisian dialect of Arabic.

Genetic studies show that the average resident of the country is Arab only 20%, and most of the genes are from Berbers and other indigenous peoples of North Africa. There are also marker genes from the Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Spaniards, Italians, Turks, French. Tunisian genes reflect rich as well as.

There is also an admixture of Russian blood in Tunisians. During World War II, the Germans sent 50,000 Soviet prisoners of war here as cheap labor to build field facilities and other household work. Most of our compatriots died of starvation and disease, but several thousand fled and disappeared into the countryside of the country.

Before independence, Tunisia had many Europeans — about 500,000 — but they left the country in the next decade after Habib Bourguiba came to power. From the 6th century BC a large Jewish diaspora lived in the country, most of all Jews lived on the island of Djerba. As of 1948, there were 105,000 of them. But with the formation of the state of Israel, they went there, now there are only 900 people left.

Useful data for tourists about Tunisia, cities and resorts of the country. And also information about the population, the currency of Tunisia, cuisine, peculiarities of visa and customs restrictions in Tunisia.

Geography of Tunisia

The Tunisian Republic is a state on the Mediterranean coast of North Africa. In the north and east it is washed by the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Algeria and Libya. About a third of the country's territory is occupied by the eastern spurs of the Atlas Mountains, the rest of the territory is covered with savannas and is mostly deserted.

The state

State structure

Presidential republic. The head of state is the president. Legislative power belongs to a unicameral parliament - the Chamber of Deputies.

Language

State language: Arabic, French

Italian, English and German are widespread. In the south, in the mountainous regions of Matmata and on the island of Djerba, Berber dialects have been preserved.

Religion

State religion is Islam. Most of the believers (95% of the population) are Sunni Muslims, Judaism and Christianity are also widespread. Any manifestation of religious intolerance is punishable by law.

Currency

International name: TND

The Tunisian dinar is equal to 1000 millimeters. In circulation there are banknotes in denominations of 5, 10 and 20 dinars, as well as coins in denominations of 0.5 and 1 dinars, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 millimeters. It is extremely rare to come across 1 millimeter coins. Banknotes of the same denomination can often be of different designs and years of issue, differing in size and color.

Foreign currency can be exchanged at exchange offices, banks, as well as at specialized exchange offices in ports, airports or hotels, and only at the fixed rate of the Central Bank of Tunisia. When exchanging, it is recommended to take a receipt, which is the main document for the reverse exchange for foreign currency - the exchange is made only at the airport and only if there is a receipt for the primary exchange.

Travelers checks and credit cards are accepted without restrictions in many shops, restaurants and hotels. ATM machines can also be found in all major cities and tourist centers.

Tunisia history

The territory of Tunisia was mastered by mankind more than a million years ago, and the first states arose here relatively early. In the XII century BC, Greek settlements appeared in the coastal lagoons, and then Phoenician ones. The Phoenician colony of Carthage reached its greatest power and at the beginning of the 3rd century BC was considered the strongest state in the Mediterranean. The defeats of Carthage in three wars with Rome made it a Roman province from the middle of the 2nd century BC. The lands of Tunisia were in this position until the 5th century AD, when, after the collapse of the greatest empire, the North African lands began to move from one conqueror to another. In the 5th-7th centuries, the Vandals, Alans and Byzantium seized this area in turn, until the Arabs appeared at the end of the 7th century and began to spread Islam throughout Tunisia.

In 800, Tunisia separated from the Arab Caliphate, creating its own state, which at times was experiencing serious internal difficulties. The consequence of which, apparently, was its disintegration and conquest in the middle of the XII century. Having achieved independence, Tunisia played an important role in the Arab world from the 13th century until it was faced with an encroachment on its sovereignty by Spain in the 16th century. Unwilling to obey the Europeans, Tunisia at the end of the 16th century recognized its dependence on Turkey. In the 18th century, this dependence was greatly weakened and was of a formal nature, which made it possible to introduce the first constitution in the country in 1861. But the increased financial dependence on European capital made it possible, first of all, for France to consider the lands of Tunisia as a future colony. In 1881, the French occupied Tunisia, and attempts to resist were suppressed. However, after the First World War, they unfolded with renewed vigor.

The outbreak of the Second World War for some time changed the political situation in the country. In 1942, Tunisia was captured by German-Italian troops, in 1943 - by Anglo-French units. After the end of the war, colonialism was restored, which further contributed to the growth of the national liberation struggle. In 1954, France granted Tunisia internal autonomy, and in 1956 - full independence. Since July 1957, Tunisia proclaimed itself a republic.

The territory of Tunisia was mastered by mankind more than a million years ago, and the first states arose here relatively early. In the XII century BC, Greek settlements appeared in the coastal lagoons, and then Phoenician ones. The Phoenician colony of Carthage reached its greatest power and at the beginning of the 3rd century BC was considered the strongest state in the Mediterranean. The defeats of Carthage in three wars with Rome made it a Roman province from the middle of the 2nd century BC. The lands of Tunisia were in this position until the 5th century AD, when, after the collapse of the greatest empire, the North African lands began to move from one conqueror to another. In the 5th-7th centuries, the Vandals, Alans and Byzantium seized this area in turn, until the Arabs appeared at the end of the 7th century and began to spread Islam throughout Tunisia ...

Popular attractions

Tunis Tourism

Where to stay

Despite the recent crisis and revolution that occurred in Tunisia in 2010, the resorts of this country are always popular among tourists. Fortunately, the hostilities did not affect the large resorts. The most popular among tourists is the eastern part of Tunisia, namely the Mediterranean coast of the country.

In Tunisia, you can stay in both large hotels and small private hotels, hostels, rent accommodation from the local population. The country's hotels are classified according to the international system - from two to five stars. However, it is worth considering that the level of service in some of them does not correspond to the declared stars, so it is worthwhile to clarify all the details of accommodation in advance or use the advice of those tourists who have already stayed at this hotel.

Large hotels are mostly complexes with a large and well-equipped territory. So, guests can use the swimming pool, restaurant, spa center. There are also playgrounds, special animation programs have been developed. The rate usually includes the use of a sun lounger, parasol and beach towels. It is worth checking in advance if there is an air conditioner and a refrigerator in the room. Meals can be either half board or all inclusive. You will have to pay extra for drinks at dinner. If you decide to stay in a 3-4-star hotel in Tunisia, you should be more careful about storing valuables - the safe at the reception is best suited for this, as cases of theft are not uncommon.

In big cities, in particular resort towns, you can stay in a hostel. Here, for a low pay, you will be offered minimal amenities, but be prepared for Spartan conditions. There are also many small private hotels throughout the country.

Tunisian cuisine is closer to European than traditionally Arabic. The only spicy seasoning - harissa - is served in a separate bowl along with olive oil. The taste reminds of Caucasian adjika (only without salt). Harissa is eaten by dipping pieces of bread into it, and the amount of pepper will depend only on the trajectory of your hand and the force of pressing on the contents of the plate. As for the bread itself, there are two types of it: "lavash" and "loaf" (long). Tunisians break bread with their hands and eat in large quantities ...

Tip

Tipping is optional, but you can use it to thank people who have provided you with some kind of service. As a rule, in cafes and restaurants, tips are already included in the order price, if not, then they are 10% of the cost. The same amount is left to the taxi driver.

Visa

Opening hours of institutions

Shops are open on weekdays from 8 am to 4.30 pm, and on Saturday only until 12.30 pm.

Banks are open from 7.30 am to 11 am (except Saturday and Sunday) from July to September. From October to June - from 8 am to 11 am and from 2 pm to 4:30 pm (Friday from 8 am to 11 am and from 1 pm to 3 pm). In the capital and in major tourist centers, bank branches are usually open longer.

Souvenirs

As souvenirs, you can bring exotic baskets, chests, mats - made of palm leaves; carpet with the finest ornamentation or more severe, in the "Berber" style; ceramics - handmade by craftsmen from Nabul; Berber silver jewelry, minting, hookah, olive oil, oriental sweets, local wines.

A traditional Tunisian souvenir is the "sand rose", a crystalline petrified formation that resembles a flower.

The medicine

No insurance is required to enter the country, no vaccination is required, but tropical vaccination against malaria and yellow fever is recommended.

In no case should you consume peeled vegetables and fruits, try seafood or other unfamiliar dishes in small restaurants, and you should also not drink tap water, despite the fact that in general it complies with the norms.

Security

Tunisia has a fairly low crime rate. Observe normal safety precautions, and beware of pickpockets in markets and crowded areas. Leave large amounts of money and documents in the hotel safe.

Emergency phones

Police - 197
Fire brigade - 198
Ambulance - 190 or round the clock 846, 767
Night ambulance - 717-171

Photo and video shooting

Photography in official buildings is prohibited. It is strictly forbidden to take pictures or video cameras of the presidential palace. Police officers erase or expose such frames. Tunisians, without first obtaining their consent, it is better not to photograph.

National characteristics of Tunisia. Traditions

In the resort areas, tourists can dress easily and freely. But it is better not to walk in the capital and the old Muslim quarters of the cities in shorts and too open T-shirts. On "their" beach or by the pool of their hotel, women can afford topless.

During Ramadan, tourists are advised to refrain from smoking, drinking and eating on the city streets. It is better not to invite Tunisians to smoke, drink wine or beer, and especially to share strong drinks. In hotels, you can drink and smoke in peace, and you will be served politely by a fasting waiter. If you come across a person who is kneeling and praying, calmly walk around him.

Do not gaze intently at women in a veil. It is customary to say hello in hotels and shops. You should not bargain in shops where prices are set.

Questions and opinions about Tunisia

Monastir - Question-Answer

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Economic and geographical position of Tunisia

Tunisia is a small African state located in the north of the mainland.

The northern and eastern coasts of Tunisia are washed by the Mediterranean Sea, and by land the western border runs with Algeria, the southern one with Libya.

The country is separated from the island of Sicily by the narrow Strait of Tunis.

The coastline of the country stretches along the sea coast for 1300 km and is distinguished by high steep shores in the north and low, gentle ones in the east. The islands of Jebra, Zembra, Kerkenna, Kuriat are located near the coast.

Remark 1

Tunisia is a former French colony that gained independence in 1956.

In the developed economy of the country, a significant place belongs to agriculture, mining, manufacturing, electricity and tourism.

With a well-developed road transport, European road traffic regulations apply and road signs comply with international standards. The roads in the country are in good condition, especially in the north of the country.

An extensive railway network covers the entire center of Tunisia. Remote areas of the country in the direction of Carthage, Nabul, Bir-Burgida are connected with the center by suburban communication.

A small number of areas are covered by air, because the country is small and the cost of flights inside is quite high. Flights between the capital - the city of Tunisia, with cities such as Djerba, Sfax, Tozeur, operate regularly.

Sea transport mainly carries out international transportation of goods using the ports of Khalq-el-Oued, Sfax, Bizerta, Sehira, Sousse.

The main Tunisian exports are oil and petroleum products, phosphates, phosphoric acid, fish, seafood, olive oil, citrus fruits, dates, footwear and leather.

The main imports are machinery and equipment, electronics, pharmaceutical and chemical products, agricultural equipment, printing equipment, sugar, wheat, vegetable oil.

Among the trading partners are Italy, Germany, France, Spain, and the USA. Libya.

The current situation is challenging, especially on the Tunisian-Libyan border. The difficulty lies in the fact that, since 2011, the Arab countries have become the leading region in terms of the number of internally displaced persons. This problem was typical for Algeria, Iraq, Western Sahara, but after the "Arab spring" migration flows increased significantly.

The country left the customs union with France and introduced a national currency - the Tunisian dinar. The lands of foreign colonists were partially bought by the state and partially expropriated from foreign colonists. A number of foreign trade and industrial enterprises were nationalized, new ones were built.

In such industries as energy and transport, state and mixed companies have been created. Since the 70s, the penetration of the monopolies of the USA, Sweden, Italy, Germany into the country's economy has increased. The scope of government participation in industry is limited.

Remark 2

Thus, the economic and geographical position of Tunisia is quite favorable. Taking advantage of the physical and geographical position, the available natural resources, well-developed transport, freed from the colonial oppression of France, the country was able to solve the primary tasks and become one of the more developed African states.

Natural conditions of Tunisia

Based on the natural characteristics of the territory, Tunisia is divided into 4 natural areas:

1. tell natural area;
2. natural area Steppe;
3. the natural region of the Sahel;
4. natural region South (Sahara).

Tell is mainly a mountainous region and is located in the northwest of the country - it is the most developed and populated part of Tunisia. The Atlas Mountains enter this area and form three ridges here - Tell Atlas, Tebessa, and the Tunisian ridge.

The highest point of the country is located in the Tunisian ridge - Mount Shambi, whose height is 1544 m. The mountains are similar in folding to the European Alps, they have deep gorges and pointed rocky peaks.

The second natural area located south of Tell is the Steppe. The area does not look like a classical steppe, most likely it is a semi-desert, represented by hilly sandy plains covered with sedge-like grass alpha. There are very large depressions here, which are filled with brackish water, called the Big Shots - Shott-Jerid, Shott al-Garsa. The Tunisian steppes are characterized by wadis that dry up in summer and do not have an external runoff. The wadis end their journey in sebhas (depressions), the bottom of which is covered with saline clay deposits. After the rains, the sebhi turn into swamps.

In the central part of the east coast lies the Sahel, a vast lowland that stretches from the northern tip of the Tunisian Ridge to the Gulf of Gabes. It is an olive growing area.

South of the Big Shots begins the Tunisian part of the Sahara - a hilly desert plain. Its eastern part is rocky Hammada, with bizarre rocky formations, and its western part is the sandy-gravelly Sarir desert.

In the Tunisian Sahara, where there are groundwater outlets to the surface, there are oases.

The mild climate and sandy beaches of the east coast are a great place for tourists to relax.

The Atlas ridges stretch from southwest to northeast, so they are not a serious obstacle to humid air masses. On the other hand, the central regions and the south of the country are influenced by the Sahara.

Summer temperatures are from +22 to +32 degrees. Winter temperatures range from +5 to +12 degrees.

The southern part of Tunisia lies in an area of \u200b\u200btropical desert and semi-desert climate. In the north of the country, humid winds in autumn and winter bring moisture, and in January and February snow can sometimes fall, but it lays until the first rays of the sun.

Winds blowing from the Sahara can dominate the entire territory, bringing with them heat and dry air. The sirocco south wind is very difficult to bear.

Precipitation falls unevenly - most of it falls in the north (600-1000 mm), and in the south it is already less than 200 mm. There are places where precipitation is less than 100 mm. But, the main problem is that precipitation falls irregularly over the years - one year may fall 800 mm, and the next year - only 200 mm.

Natural resources of Tunisia

The country does not have large and varied reserves of mineral resources.

In its depths there are iron ores with total reserves of 55 million tons, phosphorites 1.2 billion tons. Oil reserves are 123 million tons, and natural gas reserves are about 42.5 billion cubic meters. m.

The shelf zone is promising.

Lead deposits are 360 \u200b\u200bthousand tons, zinc - 200 thousand tons. There are known reserves of mercury - 700 tons, 5 million tons of fluorite, 1.9 million tons of barite. There is manganese and potassium salts.

Of all the mineral resources, phosphorites are of the greatest economic importance.

But Tunisia is rich in groundwater, reserves of which are found in almost all regions of the country. Groundwater is important both for the development of the economy and for people. Their role is especially significant in the south of the country.

Soil change occurs from north to south. On the plains, light brown and red brown soils prevail. Cereals are grown on them.

Sandy soils of semi-deserts and deserts are typical for the southern regions, they are often saline.

In the highlands of the north, brown forest soils have formed.

Sufficient rainfall in the north favors the development of evergreen forests dominated by cork oak. Olive groves are spread to the south, and cereals are dominant on the central plateau. On the irrigated plantations of the south, the date palm grows.

Of the animals in the forests, there are many jackals, wild boars, gazelles. There are wild sheep in the mountains. Vipers and scorpions live in the desert area.

Tunisia is a small country in northern Africa with a rich history. For more than five hundred years, the famous Carthage, founded by the Phoenicians in the 8th century BC, flourished here. During the course of Carthage was destroyed by the Romans to the ground. After the Romans, Byzantium ruled here, later - Since the 19th century, Tunisia acquired the status of a protectorate of France, and only in 1957 did the country achieve independence.

Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, is the cultural and economic center of the country. The capital of the state of Tunisia, like the whole country, has absorbed the traditions of different peoples and eras during its three thousand-year existence. This beautiful and original city is bordered on one side by the soft blue waters of the bay, and on the other - by soft waves of low hills. It is a city of bright colors: white buildings, green gardens, bright blue sky. This quaint city combines traditional Muslim architecture, interesting museums, modern spa centers and many colorful markets.

The capital of Tunisia with its center - the walled Medina, which is called the "old city", attracts the attention of many tourists. On the top of the hill rises the ancient citadel of the Kasbah. Medina is concentrated around the Kasbah and the famous mosque Jami ez-Zeytun ("Olive Mosque", founded in 703 Zitunu is the spiritual center of the country, surrounded by numerous madrasahs, and its 44-meter-high square minaret, which has become the symbol of Tunisia, is visible from afar.

Unlike the Mediterranean coast with fashionable resorts like Monastir or Hammamet, the capital of Tunisia is not so rich in tourists and therefore it is here that you can best feel the real Arabian charm - a leisurely lifestyle with noisy oriental bazaars, Turkish baths, mosques, madrassas. The main attraction is the narrow streets, markets, mosques and shops of the Medina.

Government Square, or Kasbah Square, is the seat of the president and ministries, or, as they are called here, state secretariats. The ministries are housed in long, beautiful buildings of pink and white stone with graceful columns, open balustrades and patterned arches in

Not far from the square is Souq el-Attarin - the most exotic quarter, which grew on the site where the incense market was located in the Middle Ages. And today a variety of spices and perfumes are sold here.

The capital of Tunisia is rich in ancient sights. An interesting mosque of Yusuf-bey (17th century), a mosque and mausoleum of Mahrez Sidi, a mausoleum of the Hasanids have survived to this day. The famous suburb of Tunisia is Carthage, an ancient and once mighty city. Today, the National Museum of Carthage is based on its ruins.

Resorts of Tunisia captivate with amazing white sandy beaches and the beauty of coastal oases. mostly beachfront, but many tourists come here seeking to combine thalassotherapy treatments with relaxing on the beach.

First-class hotels, the luxurious nature of this region, the aura of the East, which is saturated with the ancient cities of this country, attract thousands of tourists to Tunisia. The excursions offered by the guides of this distinctive country are interesting and informative.