Karaka

Welcome to Karaka, Tunis Metropole

Karaka refers to the historic Fort of La Goulette (also known as Karraka), a coastal stronghold at the entrance of Lake Tunis in the greater Tunis metropolis. Though not a typical tourist site with regular opening hours, it holds rich historical value.

Historical Context

The fort was built in 1535 by the Spanish to control access to Tunis and was later captured by the Ottomans in 1574. In the 19th century, it was used as a prison—whence the name Karaka, now colloquially meaning “jail.” Today it is partially preserved and occasionally opens for cultural events.

Landmarks

• Fort of La Goulette (Karaka): A 16th-century coastal fortress with origins in Spanish and Ottoman defensive architecture, now used occasionally for cultural events.
• Tourbet el Bey: The royal mausoleum of the Husainid dynasty in the Medina of Tunis. Opened in February 2023 after restoration.
• Dar Ben Abdallah: An 18th-century palace turned museum of popular arts and traditions in the Medina of Tunis.
• Amphitheatre of El Jem: One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters in North Africa, capable of seating around 35,000.
• Archaeological Site of Carthage: Ancient ruins and heritage site near Tunis with UNESCO World Heritage status.

Museums

• Bardo National Museum

  A premier national museum housing one of the world’s largest collections of Roman mosaics and artifacts from Tunisia’s Punic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic eras.

  Visit Website

  Opening Hours: June 1–September 15: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; September 16–May 30: 9:30 AM–4:30 PM; closed Mondays. (bardomuseum.tn)

  Ticket Price: Non-residents approx. 13 TND, residents 8 TND, seniors (60+) 4 TND. Students and high‑school/university visitors often free with ID. (bardomuseum.tn)

• Dar Ben Abdallah Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions

  Historic 18th-century palace showcasing Tunisian family life, crafts, and public traditions.

  Visit Website

  Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; closed Mondays and public holidays. (audiala.com)

  Ticket Price: General admission 10 TND; children under 12 free; reduced rates for students and seniors. (audiala.com)

Tips for Visitors

• Check in advance whether the Karaka fort is open—access is only occasional for cultural events.
• Visit Bardo early in the day (Tuesday–Sunday) to avoid crowds; Mondays are closed. First Sunday of each month may offer free admission. (reddit.com)
• At Dar Ben Abdallah, guided tours enhance understanding of exhibits; be aware opening hours may vary slightly. (airial.travel)
• Combine visits within Tunis: Tourbet el Bey and Dar Ben Abdallah are both in the Medina and are walkable between each other.

Sources

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