Carthage National Museum

Welcome to Carthage National Museum, Tunis Metropole

Discover the heart of ancient civilizations in Tunisia at the Carthage National Museum, located atop Byrsa Hill in Tunis Metropole, Tunisia. This museum offers a compelling journey through Punic, Roman, and early Christian periods, featuring remarkable artifacts that tell the story of a once-powerful maritime empire. The panoramic views from the museum also allow breathtaking perspectives over the Gulf of Tunis. 

Historical Context

The Carthage National Museum was founded in 1875 by Cardinal Charles Martial Lavigerie to house archaeological finds from extensive excavations in Carthage, particularly those led by Alfred Louis Delattre. The museum was officially redesignated as a national museum in 1956 and opened to the public in 1963, followed by substantial renovations in the 1990s to accommodate new discoveries.

Landmarks

• Roman Amphitheater of Carthage: A now mostly ruined structure from the 2nd century, once seating up to 30,000 spectators for gladiatorial and naval displays.
• Byrsa Hill: The museum’s location and ancient citadel of Carthage, offering sweeping views across the archaeological park and Gulf of Tunis.
• Tophet of Salammbo: A Punic sanctuary site near Carthage with stelae and religious significance, part of the broader ruins accessible in the area.
• Basilica of Saint‑Cyprien: The remains of a Late Antique Christian basilica explored in the early 20th century, located on the outskirts of the Carthage archaeological site with sea views.

Museums

• Carthage National Museum

  This museum showcases Punic sarcophagi, Roman mosaics including the “Lady of Carthage”, glass masks and jewelry, amphoras, ivory artifacts, and Byzantine-era objects.

  Visit Website

  Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30 AM–5:30 PM; closed on Mondays.

  Ticket Price: Adults approximately USD 5; students and children under 12 USD 2.50.

• Bardo Museum (nearby in Tunis)

  Located in a former Hafsid palace, this museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of Roman mosaics alongside artifacts from Carthaginian, Phoenician, and Islamic periods.

  Visit Website

  Opening Hours: (Not specified in sources)

  Ticket Price: Approximately 13 TND per person.

Tips for Visitors

• Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
• Wear comfortable footwear—there’s significant walking across archaeological terrain.
• Take the TGM light rail to Carthage station, then walk or taxi to the museum for a scenic and cost-effective journey.

Sources

• Museum collection details from Carthage Magazine and Wonderful Museums.(carthagemagazine.com)
• Timing and ticket information from Rehlat travel guide.(rehlat.co)
• Landmark context from The Nomad Almanac and Healthy‑Food‑Near‑Me guide.(thenomadalmanac.com)