Built to commemorate former President Ben Ali’s assumption of power on 7 November 1987 (hence the name of the surrounding plaza), this 38m-high clocktower forms a gilt-topped landmark at the eastern end of Ave Habib Bourguiba. Part obelisk, part mid-century-style lampshade, its mashrabiyya (lattice screen) is illuminated from within at night.
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
0.83 MILES
This sprawling maze of ancient streets and alleyways is one of the most impressive medieval medinas in North Africa and one of Tunisia's great treasures…
2.9 MILES
The main draw at the Tunisia's top museum is its magnificent collection of Roman mosaics. These provide a vibrant and fascinating portrait of ancient…
13.19 MILES
On the cultivated amber slopes of Mt Mekrima, the fascinating but little-visited ruins of ancient Uthina are the remains of one of the Roman Empire's…
0.89 MILES
A medina highlight, this hugely atmospheric souq is filled with exquisitely decorated shops producing and selling chechias, Tunisia's traditional blood…
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0.53 MILES
Tunisian food markets offer a great introduction to local culture, and Tunis' Marché Centrale is particularly atmospheric. The original market building…
27.36 MILES
This appealing golden curve of beach is anchored by a rock-hewn castle-like villa, said to have belonged to Wassila Bourguiba, the wife of the former…
9.01 MILES
The Romans chose a sublime seaside setting for this monumental terme (bath complex), a short walk downhill from the Roman villas. Begun under Hadrian and…
0.85 MILES
Located in the heart of Tunis' medina, this important mosque was founded in 734 and built on a site once occupied by a church. It was totally rebuilt in…
Nearby Tunis attractions
1. Pont de la République Street Art
0.14 MILES
In 2016, local street artists including Abdelmejid Ben Messaoud, Khalil Gouiaâ, Mourad Harbaoui, Brahim Azzabi, Samir Fitouri, Abdelmonem Sehili, Walid…
0.26 MILES
The walls of derelict buildings on this street have been used as open-air canvases by local street artists.
3. Institut Française de Tunisie
0.33 MILES
Housed in a building elegantly revamped by Richter+Partner with Karim Jeddi-Gonzales, the Institut Française hosts a rich program of cultural activities…
4. Cathedral of St Vincent de Paul & St Olive
0.41 MILES
There are some fine examples of colonial architecture in Centre Ville, ranging from the elegant to the exuberant to the bizarre. This custard-coloured…
0.53 MILES
Tunisian food markets offer a great introduction to local culture, and Tunis' Marché Centrale is particularly atmospheric. The original market building…
0.6 MILES
Also called the Porte de France or French Gate, this huge freestanding arch was the medina's eastern gateway until the surrounding walls were demolished…
0.75 MILES
This building was constructed for Othman Dey in the late 16th century. His business – piracy – was obviously lucrative, and he also happened to be…