Sousse is a popular resort on the coast of Tunisia, and deservedly so. Although much of the town was flattened by bombs during World War 2, the Ribat and the Great Mosque survived, whilst the rest of the town benefited from a rebuild. 

Take a look at the exceptionally thick walls (about 2 metres) of the Ribat, which once housed the community of Sufi Muslims. It is easy to admire from the broad boulevard which runs around it. Just inside the entrance there are some panels explaining the history and design of the building, including the capture and storage of precious rainfall. It is fun to climb the steps to the top of the ramparts and see the room above the main gate with slits in the floor. These were possibly used for pouring boiling oil onto the enemy!

Opposite the main gate to the Ribat is the pleasant café ‘Ribat Drink’ with views of the delightfully decorative minarets of the octagonal Zaouia Zakkak. Further along, the Great Mosque is an attractive fortification cum temple with a colonnade, a squat minaret and an octagonal sundial in the courtyard.

Exercise polite firmness with the persistent traders and head for the souk which has local foods, fish and bargains in clothing. The highest point in the town is marked by the Khalef El Fela Watchtower inside the Kasbah. The museum here is well worth a visit to see some fine mosaics laid out in small cloisters. These include a perfect picture of Medusa, the mythical Greek Gorgon; Adam and Eve; some theatrical masks and a beautiful bird and beast picture. There are good explanations too of these 3rd and 4th century antiquities. Look out for the huge mosaic of Neptune and also the unusual calendar from El Jem depicting the seasons and the Roman festivals.

After all this culture, head for the new part of town. There are some great cafés, rotisseries and fish restaurants along the Avenue Habib Bourguiba where you can enjoy anything from a local drink to a fine meal.