Officially known as the Republic of Tunisia, this country can be found in the Maghreb region of North Africa.
Tunisia is only bordered by two countries, which are: Algeria, to both the west and southwest and Libya, to the southeast. However, it is also bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the east.
Continue reading and discover all these amazing facts about Tunisia.
Tunisia Facts
1. Tunisia has a very unique location
It can be argued that Tunisia’s location is strategic because even though it forms part of the African continent, it also has proximity to Europe.
Thus, Tunisia is geographically impressive. The country is also situated at the eastern ern of the Atlas Mountains, and it also contains the northern side of the Sahara desert.
Not only does Tunisia have 800 miles of coastline, but its soil is very fertile throughout the country.
Even though it is the smallest country in the Maghreb region, it still represents an important point of access to Europe, a fun fact about Tunisia.
2. The country has been welcoming of many cultures for many centuries
Tunisia has always been inhabited by Berbers, however, they were always welcoming different types of people from all over the world.
This is why Phoenician immigration decided to move to Tunisia in the 12th century BC, and in there, they decided to found Carthage, which was a major ancient city.
Carthage had all that was necessary in order to thrive. For example, merchants would often negotiate in the city, and as a result, it became a hot international spot.
Eventually, the Roman Republic became aware of the importance of Carthage and decided to send all of its militaries in order to gain the city, in 146 BC. This was a major blow, as the country was now invaded for the next 800 years.
Hundreds of years later, more specifically in 647, Muslims made plans to move to this area. They ended up conquering the whole of Tunisia, less than 50 years after they decided to embark on this, and by 697 they had already introduced Islam.
But colonization wasn’t over in Tunisia, and the Ottoman Empire ruled the country from 1574 to at least 1800. And as soon after they moved out, French colonization occurred in 1881.
It was a long road to gain independence and in 1957, Tunisia finally declared itself the Independent Republic.
But independence has also come with a great cost, and in 2011, the Tunisian Revolution happened. This meant that President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was overthrown. Soon after the parliamentary elections occurred.
3. The country is one of the most modern countries in the Arab World
Not only is Tunisia considered as the only democratic country in the Arab world, but it is also a case study in regards to its status as a representative democratic republic, an interesting fact about Tunisia.
Tunisia also has a high human development index score and is a member of several international Unions and Organizations, such as La Francophonie, The Arab Maghreb Union, the Arab League, the United Nations, and more.
Tunisia also has direct and close relations with Italy and France, and the European countries have helped the Maghreb country to achieve privatization and industrial modernization.
4. Tunisia’s culture is diverse
Because of a long period of foreign colonization, Tunisia became a highly diverse country, filled with many different religions, cultures, languages, and habits.
It is normal to find synagogues, churches, and mosques in the capital city, Tunis.
And this mixture of cultures has allowed Tunisia to develop a very interesting cuisine, which is a reflection of everything that the country has ever lived.
5. Hollywood loves to film in Tunisia
Tunisia is also a hot spot for Hollywood producers, as the country has served as a unique and popular destination for many movies.
A fun fact about Tunisia is that Star Wars, The English Patient, and Jesus of Nazareth were all filmed in this country.
The reason why Hollywood filmmakers tend to go to this Maghreb country is that they have a sense of stability, but also, the country offers highly valuable views and scenery.
6. In the Matmata area, underground houses are everywhere
Pretty much all tourists will want to go to Matmata, because it is a very interesting and unique place to visit.
At first, anthropologists and other researchers thought that only nomadic tribes were living, but in 1969, after a couple of studies in the site were performed, they soon realized that people still live in underground houses.
These regular settlements have resisted years of droughts, severe rains, and cold winters, and they are protected by the Tunisian government.
Most of the inhabitants of Matmata now live off from the tourism they receive. And, nowadays, tourists can also go inside of the underground homes as folklore exhibitions are always on display.
7. The country is very exotic
Not only because of its location, but Tunisia has great vegetation and animal life.
Even though severe changes in the weather have also meant that Tunisia is suffering in some areas, it can be argued that the Government has made a priority the conservation of wildlife and autochthonous flora.
This means that hunting is forbidden in many areas of the country, so gazelles, cobra snakes, and even bears can run freely, a fun Tunisia fact.
The Ichkeul National Park, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980, much to the delight of conservationists and bird lovers.
Conclusion
Tunisia is a very important country, not only in the Maghreb region but in the rest of the world. Its ecosystems offer a great balance to many other areas of the globe.
In addition, thanks to the different types of cultures that have coexisted in Tunisia for centuries, it can also be argued that this country truly represents some important values for the rest of the world to see and learn about.
The fusion that happens in this Maghreb country is unlike any other, and this can be seen in their architecture, religions, cultures, foods, and even languages. This is why Tunisia has remained a popular country for tourists.
I hope that this article on Tunisia facts was helpful! If you are interested, visit the Country Facts Page!
