The city of Mahdia

The city of Mahdia is located 200 km from the capital Tunis, it is a coastal city that has become a popular tourist destination in recent decades. Rich in history and charm, this city offers visitors a perfect blend of cultural heritage and seaside relaxation.

A Glimpse into Mahdia’s History

Originally a Phoenician and later Roman trading post known as Aphrodisium, Mahdia’s prominence grew in 920 AD when the Fatimids chose it as the capital of their caliphate. The founding Caliph, Abdoullah-El-Mehdi, selected the city for its strategic location. Over the centuries, Mahdia faced conquests and occupations by various powers, including the Hilalians, Christians, Spaniards, and Turks. In 1555, the Spaniards destroyed its defensive walls, marking the end of its military and commercial significance. However, the city’s historical layers still reveal its former glory.

Mahdia Today: A Coastal Gem

Today, Mahdia is known for its stunning sapphire-blue sea, fine sandy beaches, and rich cultural traditions. The city’s small Medina exudes a laid-back atmosphere, while the Mediterranean gently rocks fishing boats in the harbor. Mahdia’s long stretch of golden sand beaches, lined with luxury hotels, attracts thousands of tourists every year seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.

A City Steeped in Tradition

Mahdia’s identity is closely tied to its fishing heritage. The city’s port is among the most important in Tunisia, with a unique tradition of nighttime fishing using “lumparos” — a technique that illuminates the sea with a thousand lights, creating a magical evening spectacle. Additionally, scuba diving enthusiasts will find Mahdia’s underwater treasures a delight, especially the famed archaeological shipwreck explored by Commander Cousteau.

A Cultural Crossroads

Throughout its history, Mahdia has been a melting pot of cultures. The city was once home to the Great Mosque, royal palaces, and artisan workshops, where silk weavers, ironworkers, and jewelers thrived. After the Fatimids relocated to Egypt in 973, Mahdia witnessed invasions by Normans, Genoese, and Knights of Malta, each leaving their mark. Later, waves of Andalusian, Anatolian, and Sicilian fishermen repopulated the city, enriching it with diverse traditions that continue to define its character today.