Neapolis Archaeological Site

The archaeological site of Neapolis, located on the outskirts of modern Nabeul, is one of the few ancient urban centers in Tunisia situated directly on the Mediterranean coast. Likely founded by the Carthaginians in the 5th century BC, it later flourished under Roman rule as a significant economic and commercial hub. Neapolis was particularly famous for its large-scale industrial production of garum, a fermented fish sauce that was a prized delicacy throughout the Roman Empire. However, a major portion of the city was submerged by a powerful tsunami on July 21, 365 AD, triggered by a massive earthquake near Crete. Underwater archaeological missions in recent decades have mapped out extensive streets and buildings, revealing the sheer scale of the ancient disaster. On land, visitors can today view the ruins of the industrial quarter with its fish-processing vats and several Roman villas featuring well-preserved mosaics. The 'House of the Nymphs' is especially noteworthy for its artistic quality and the insight it provides into the luxurious lifestyle of the provincial elite. Neapolis uniquely combines industrial archaeology with a dramatic geological history, making it a compelling destination for visitors to the Cap Bon peninsula, showcasing Roman manufacturing techniques.

Nearby cities

Hammamet

One of Tunisia's most famous holiday destinations with a charming old town.

Nabeul

The center of pottery production and a major tourist destination in Tunisia.

Kélibia

A coastal city on the Cap Bon peninsula, famous for its fortress and wine production.

Dar Chaabane

A town near Nabeul known for its traditional stonemasonry.

Menzel Temime

A city on the Cap Bon peninsula serving as a trading center for local agricultural products.

Korba

A small coastal town known for its beaches and agriculture on the Cap Bon peninsula.

Korbous

A picturesque spa town on Cap Bon, famous for its hot sulfur springs that flow directly into the sea.

Hammam-Lif

A coastal town south of Tunis that formerly served as a spa resort for the Beys of Tunis.

Enfidha

A rapidly growing city known for its international airport and industrial parks.

Radès

An important port and industrial town as well as the center of Tunisian sport.

Ben Arous

One of the most important industrial and commercial suburban cities of Tunis.

History & landmarks

Kasbah of Hammamet

This well-preserved 13th-century coastal fortress offers stunning views of the sea and the old town of Hammamet.

Kelibia Fort

This massive fortress overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and bears witness to the Byzantine and Ottoman military history of the region.

Radès Olympic Stadium

The largest stadium in Tunisia hosts major football matches and athletics competitions.

Acropolium of Carthage

The former Cathedral of Saint Louis sits atop Byrsa Hill and is now used as a cultural events center.

Ennejma Ezzahra Palace

This elegant palace combines Moorish architecture with European influences and today houses a museum for Arab and Mediterranean music.

More places

Pupput Archaeological Site

The Roman ruins of the settlement Pupput, known for extensive Roman bathhouses and a large Christian necropolis.

Punic Town of Kerkouane

One of the best preserved Punic cities, which was destroyed by the Romans and never rebuilt.

Nabeul Pottery Garden

An interactive area where kids can discover the art of traditional pottery.

Grombalia Viticulture

A significant wine-growing region benefiting from favorable climatic conditions.

Djebel Abderrahmane

A range of hills on the Cap Bon peninsula.

Cap Bon Fruit Orchards

A garden paradise for citrus and other exotic fruits, favored by the marine climate.

Zembra Islands

Archipelago in the Gulf of Tunis.

Friguia Park

A major zoological park hosting a variety of African animals in a near-natural environment.