Tunisia, officially known as the Republic of Tunisia, is a country located in North Africa. It is located on the Mediterranean coast, bordered by Algeria to the west and Libya to the southeast. Tunisia’s geographic coordinates range from approximately 30° to 37°N latitude and 7° to 12°E longitude.
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Geography
Climate
Tunisia has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Inland regions experience more extreme temperatures, with desert areas in the south reaching scorching highs. The coastal regions enjoy milder temperatures, making them popular tourist destinations.
Fauna
Tunisia is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including mammals such as the Barbary macaque, the North African hedgehog, and the fennec fox. The country’s avifauna includes various species of birds of prey, waterfowl, and migratory birds. The coastal waters support marine life such as dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of fish species.
Longest Rivers
The Medjerda River is the longest river in Tunisia, stretching approximately 460 kilometers (286 miles) from its source in the Atlas Mountains to its mouth at the Gulf of Tunis. The river plays a crucial role in the country’s agriculture and economy, supporting irrigation and hydroelectric power generation.
Highest Mountains
The highest peak in Tunisia is Jebel ech Chambi, located in the Atlas Mountains near the Algerian border. Jebel ech Chambi rises to an elevation of approximately 1,544 meters (5,066 feet) above sea level, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
History
Prehistory
Tunisia has a rich history dating back thousands of years, with evidence of human habitation since the Paleolithic era. The region was inhabited by various ancient civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and Vandals. Carthage, founded by the Phoenicians in the 9th century BCE, became a major power in the Mediterranean.
Roman and Byzantine Period
Tunisia flourished under Roman rule, with cities such as Carthage, Dougga, and Bulla Regia becoming important centers of trade and culture. The region was known as the breadbasket of Rome, exporting grain, olive oil, and other commodities to the rest of the empire. Christianity spread throughout the region during the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Arab Conquest and Islamic Civilization
In the 7th century CE, Arab conquerors brought Islam to Tunisia, establishing a new era of Islamic civilization. The city of Kairouan became a major center of Islamic learning and culture, with its Great Mosque serving as a symbol of the country’s religious heritage. Tunisia was ruled by various Islamic dynasties, including the Aghlabids, Fatimids, and Hafsids.
Ottoman and French Rule
Tunisia came under Ottoman rule in the 16th century and remained part of the Ottoman Empire until the late 19th century. In 1881, Tunisia became a French protectorate, marking the beginning of French colonial rule. The country gained independence from France in 1956, establishing the Republic of Tunisia.
Modern Age
Since independence, Tunisia has undergone significant political, social, and economic changes. The country has transitioned to a democratic system of government, with periodic elections and a multi-party political landscape. Tunisia has made strides in areas such as education, healthcare, and women’s rights, although challenges remain.
Demographics
Tunisia has a population of approximately 11.7 million people, with a diverse mix of ethnicities and cultures. The majority of the population is Arab-Berber, with significant influences from European, African, and Middle Eastern peoples. Islam is the predominant religion, practiced by the vast majority of Tunisians, while there are also small Christian and Jewish communities.
Administrative Divisions
Tunisia is divided into 24 governorates (wilayat), which are further subdivided into delegations (mutamadiyat). Here are the administrative divisions along with their respective populations:
- Tunis – Population: 1,070,000
- Sfax – Population: 956,000
- Sousse – Population: 717,000
- Kairouan – Population: 570,000
- Gabes – Population: 532,000
- Bizerte – Population: 565,000
- Ariana – Population: 609,000
- Gafsa – Population: 342,000
- Manouba – Population: 378,000
- Medenine – Population: 583,000
- Monastir – Population: 548,000
- Nabeul – Population: 801,000
- Tataouine – Population: 149,000
- Tozeur – Population: 128,000
- Kasserine – Population: 458,000
- Kebili – Population: 160,000
- Jendouba – Population: 400,000
- Zaghouan – Population: 176,000
- Beja – Population: 304,000
- Siliana – Population: 312,000
- Mahdia – Population: 424,000
- Kef – Population: 259,000
- Kef – Population: 259,000
- Tunis – Population: 1,070,000
10 Largest Cities by Population
The largest cities in Tunisia by population are:
- Tunis
- Sfax
- Sousse
- Kairouan
- Gabes
- Bizerte
- Ariana
- Gafsa
- Manouba
- Medenine
Education Systems
Education in Tunisia is free and compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16. The country has a well-developed education system, with both public and private schools at all levels. Tunisian universities, such as the University of Tunis and the University of Sfax, offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
Transportation
Airports
Tunisia has eight international airports, with Tunis-Carthage International Airport being the busiest and most important. Other major airports include Djerba-Zarzis International Airport, Monastir-Habib Bourguiba International Airport, and Sfax–Thyna International Airport.
Railways
The Tunisian railway network, operated by Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Tunisiens (SNCFT), spans approximately 2,165 kilometers (1,345 miles) and connects major cities such as Tunis, Sfax, and Gabes. The railway system plays a vital role in both passenger and freight transportation.
Highways
Tunisia has a well-developed road network, with highways connecting major cities and regions across the country. The total length of paved roads in Tunisia is approximately 20,000 kilometers (12,400 miles), facilitating efficient transportation and commerce.
Ports
The Port of Tunis is the largest and busiest port in Tunisia, handling the majority of the country’s maritime trade. Other major ports include the Port of Bizerte, the Port of Sfax, and the Port of Rades. These ports serve as vital gateways for imports and exports, contributing significantly to Tunisia’s economy.
Country Facts
- Population: 11.7 million
- Capital: Tunis
- Language: Arabic (official), French (lingua franca)
- Religion: Islam (predominantly Sunni)
- Race: Arab-Berber, European, African
- Currency: Tunisian Dinar (TND)
- ISO Country Codes: TN, TUN
- International Calling Code: +216
- Top-Level Domain: .tn