Thuburbo Majus

Thuburbo Majus is a Roman settlement in the Zaghouan region with temples, bathhouses, houses, and a central forum arranged across multiple hillside terraces. The structures are clearly visible and show how Romans organized their cities during this period.

The settlement was founded as a Roman colony in the 2nd century BCE and grew into a major center for olive and grain farming. Over time, the city declined and was eventually abandoned.

Water shaped daily life in this Roman settlement in visible ways, with channels and basins built throughout for drinking, bathing, and watering crops. You can see how the community organized itself around this precious resource as you walk through the remains.

The site is open to visitors year-round and lies south of Tunis, making it reachable as a day trip from the capital. Wear comfortable shoes since the paths cross uneven ground and there is little shade.

Some of the ancient water channels from Roman times still function today, carrying water from Zaghouan springs to distant places. This engineering achievement has lasted for over 2000 years.