Sights Magdi, Tunisia

Magdi - is an ancient city with an interesting past. In the VIII century BC, there arose a colony of the Phoenicians, which gradually turned into a major trading city, which existed for many centuries, surviving periods of prosperity and decline. In the Roman period there was an important trading port in the city housed a large Roman garrison.

On the Roman period of history Magdi resemble findings made as a result of underwater search of Jean-Jacques Cousteau, who discovered at the bottom near the Mahdi ancient sunken ship with treasure and objects of art. Currently findings put on display in the halls of the Museum of Bardo in the capital.

The modern name of the city belongs to the Arab history. The town was named after the last ruler of the Fatimid kind - the Mahdi - who made the city of his residence. Here was erected a powerful fortress Ribat, furnished and built the port city walls. In the X century Mahdi 300 years became the capital of the country.

Later Mahdi has become a bastion of Arab pirates, bringing terror to the Mediterranean mariners for centuries. In the XV century settled in the Mahdi pirates drove the Spaniards. They also destroyed the fortifications.

As in all Arab cities in the Mahdi is Medina - a medieval city, surrounded by the city ramparts. In the Old City is focused set of souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants, and there is the Golden Bazaar - shopping center with lots of jewelry stores.

Magdi known for its mysterious tradition of fishing in the moonlight. But even more - beautiful products of their masters - embroidery and fabrics. Production of silk fabrics - the traditional occupation of local men. Walking through the narrow alleys of the Old Town, you can not just throw your opinion on these masterpieces of gold and silver threads, created by hand by these artists in their tiny, cozy shops.