Roman Archeology Guided Tour Thuburbo Majus & Uthina

Tunis , Tunisia

Roman Archeology Guided Tour Thuburbo Majus & Uthina

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About this experience

Along the way, archeology enthusiasts will appreciate the aqueduct and the site of Oudna, a Punic city that has become Roman. The villa called 'Laberii' with its thirty rooms on 2,300 m² deserves a special visit for its mosaics, a well-preserved archaeological site includes an astonishing amphitheater which could once accommodate 20,000 spectators.
Then, we will visit the Andalusian medina of Zaghouan, to finish with Thuburbo Majus, an ancient Roman city that experienced a decline in the middle of the 3rd century before a brilliant renaissance in the 4th century, which led it to proclaim itself Respublica Felix Thuburbo Majus.

Available options

Roman Archeology Guided Tour Thuburbo Majus & Uthina

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

The ancient city of Uthina is located about 30 km south of the capital, at the place known as Oudhna, at the summit of an eminence which dominates the main access routes to Carthage coming from the south and the West of the country. Its foundation seems to date back to the Berber era as evidenced by its toponymy. As history fluctuated, it was punished and then romanized, before the two brief vandal and Byzantine guardianships - nearly a century each prelude to a definitive decline after the Arab conquest in the 7th century.
The backed-up site extends over a hundred hectares. It is 'capitonée' of imposing buildings going back to the Roman time and currently in the course of clearing and consolidation. These are the capitol, the largest in Africa, arranged on three levels; Two groups of very high capacity tanks; Large public baths and small private baths; The remains of patrician residences, an amphitheater with an initial capacity of more than 10,000 spectators.

It's a Roman aqueduct, which supplied the city of Carthage with water, measured 132 km! The Zaghouan-Carthage hydraulic complex is the largest of its kind ever built.
Built at the beginning of the 2nd century AD, the Zaghouan aqueduct testifies to the Romans' mastery of water supply techniques. It crosses a rugged landscape. Sometimes flush with the ground, sometimes underground, the pipeline is, on two portions, raised by arcades sometimes reaching more than 20 meters in height. Its flow has been estimated at around thirty million liters per day.
Most of the water was stored in the gigantic vaulted reservoirs visible at Maalga, at the entrance to Carthage, before supplying the Baths of Antonine.

The ancient city of Thuburbo Majus was founded on the side of a hill, surrounded by a splendid fertile valley landscape, long before North Africa became part of the Roman Empire.
However, it is its magnificent remains from the Roman era that make it one of the most beautiful archaeological sites in Tunisia.
Its Capitol - the most important temple in Roman cities - is one of the best preserved in Tunisia.
Six elegant Corinthian columns formed the facade. Four are still intact and overlook a wide staircase overlooking the Forum.
One of the original features of Thuburbo Majus was that it had two bathing establishments: one for winter and the other for summer. The summer thermal baths were completed by a sports field, surrounded by a beautiful covered gallery, called Palestre des Petronii after the Roman family who had built the monument.
Another peculiarity of the site is that it has preserved vestiges reminiscent of its pre-Roman past as “temple of Caelestis” or the “temple of Baalat”.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT PL FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8

4 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

4 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Tunis

Tunis, the capital of Tunisia, is a vibrant city where ancient history meets modern life. Known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling medinas, and Mediterranean charm, it offers a unique blend of Arab, African, and European influences. The city is a gateway to Tunisia's diverse landscapes, from the Sahara Desert to the coastal resorts of the Mediterranean.

Top Attractions

Medina of Tunis

The Medina of Tunis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval cities in the Arab world. It's a labyrinth of narrow streets filled with shops, mosques, and historic buildings.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore, but entry fees for specific sites

Bardo National Museum

One of the most important museums in the Islamic world, the Bardo Museum houses an extensive collection of mosaics, artifacts, and historical exhibits.

Museum 2-3 hours Moderate (around 10 TND or 3.50 USD)

Carthage

The ancient city of Carthage, founded by the Phoenicians, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ruins dating back to the 9th century BC.

Historical Half day Moderate (entry fees for specific sites)

Sidi Bou Said

A picturesque hilltop village known for its blue and white architecture, narrow streets, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Cultural Half day Free to explore, but costs for cafes and shops

Must-Try Local Dishes

Brik

A crispy fried pastry filled with egg, tuna, parsley, and sometimes cheese.

Appetizer Contains egg and seafood.

Lablabi

A traditional chickpea soup flavored with garlic, cumin, and harissa, often served with bread and a poached egg.

Soup Vegetarian option available.

Tajine

A slow-cooked stew made with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish) and vegetables, seasoned with spices and served with bread.

Main Course Vegetarian options available.

Makroudh

A sweet pastry made from semolina, filled with dates or almonds, and fried or baked, then soaked in honey syrup.

Dessert Contains nuts and honey.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the surrounding hills and nature reserves Water sports in the coastal areas Spa treatments and hammams Beach lounging Exploring the medina and historic sites Visiting museums and art galleries Swimming and snorkeling in the Mediterranean Sea Boat trips to nearby islands

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November)

These seasons offer the most comfortable weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The city is lively with cultural events and festivals.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: French, English (in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Tunisian Dinar (TND)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Tunis is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
• Use official taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps.
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.

Getting there

By air

Tunis-Carthage International Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Tunis Ville

By bus

Tunis City Bus Terminal, Tunis South Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The metro is efficient and air-conditioned, making it a comfortable option for travelers.

Taxis

Available • Apps: InDrive

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Bab El Bahr La Marsa

Day trips

Sousse

140 km from Tunis • Full day

A coastal city known for its historic medina, beautiful beaches, and the impressive Ribat of Sousse.

Hammamet

60 km from Tunis • Full day

A popular resort town known for its beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and the picturesque Medina of Hammamet.

El Djem

200 km from Tunis • Full day

Home to the impressive Roman amphitheater, El Djem is a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering a glimpse into Tunisia's Roman past.

Festivals

Tunis International Festival • July Carthage International Film Festival • October

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Arabic phrases to enhance your interaction with locals.
Visit the medina early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience.
Bargain politely when shopping in the souks, but always be respectful and friendly.
Use official taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps for safe and reliable transportation.