Sfax, Tunisia's economic capital

Tunisia's economic capital is almost as big as Tunis. Situated at the entrance to the Gulf of Gabès, halfway between Monastir to the north and Djerba to the south, Sfax is the administrative capital of the eponymous governorate. This ancient Berber then Roman city has over time become the country's main port, particularly for exporting olive oil and fish.

Since the 9th century, when the Muslim Aghlabid dynasty rebuilt the ancient Roman Taparura, its high walls have played a major role in protecting the city from invaders. The modern city was born under the French protectorate in the 19th century. It boasts neo-Moorish buildings and colonial architecture, notably the town hall and railway station.

Sfax's main jewel is its medina, encircled by ramparts considered to be among the finest in the country. The Tunisian government would like to have them listed by UNESCO, which considers the Sfax medina to be "the most representative and best-preserved example of Arab-Islamic town planning in the entire Mediterranean basin". It is on the waiting list... Access is via monumental gates leading to an impressive variety of souks with an authentic atmosphere and bustling population. The highlight of a visit to the medina is the Great Mosque, which in some respects is reminiscent of the one in Kairouan.

In the south-west corner of the medina, head for the Kasbah, a former fortified residence dating from the 16th century, with its striking towers and artillery bastion. You can explore it from the superb inner courtyard to the top of the monument, where you can enjoy a superb panoramic view of the old town. The Kasbah is also home to the Museum of Traditional Architecture.

Still in the medina, take a trip to the Dar Jallouli museum: this museum of popular arts and traditions is housed in an Andalusian-style house dating from the 17th century. The stucco, painted woodwork and ceramics of this palace provide a particularly rich backdrop for the collections of everyday objects (jewellery and other beautifully carved chests, traditional costumes, Arabic calligraphy, etc.). This former residence, built by a wealthy family of Sfax governors, is built around a beautiful inner courtyard.

Outside the medina, head for Place des Droits de l'Homme. Sfax's archaeological museum is housed in the town hall and its clock tower. Here you can admire a large collection of Roman mosaics, as well as coins, ceramics and glassware.