Musée National de Carthage (Carthage National Museum), Tunis

Located atop Byrsa Hill, the Carthage National Museum is one of two primary archaeological museums in the region, the other being the Bardo National Museum. Its origins date back to 1875 when it was founded by Cardinal Charles Martial Lavigerie on the site of a monastery. Originally called the Museum Lavigerie, it was renamed the Carthage National Museum in 1956.

The museum officially opened as a national museum in 1963 and is the result of excavations carried out by European archaeologists, including Alfred Louis Delattre. Notably, excavations in 1975 uncovered a Late Roman house with fragments of Roman mosaics, as well as a large church dating back to the 5th century AD. Plans to create a site museum were initiated in 1983, and it was finally opened a year later.

Visitors to the Carthage National Museum can appreciate the grandeur of Carthage during the Punic and Roman eras. The museum boasts a collection of limestone and marble carvings depicting animals, plants, and even human sculptures. Among its best pieces is a marble sarcophagus of a priest and priestess from the 3rd century BC, discovered in the necropolis of Carthage. The museum also showcases a notable collection of masks and jewelry in cast glass, Roman mosaics, including the famous "Lady of Carthage," and a vast array of Roman amphorae. Additionally, the exhibits feature numerous items from the Byzantine period, as well as ivory objects.

The museum is located near the Cathedral of Saint-Louis, making it a convenient stop for those interested in exploring Carthage's rich history.

Tip:
A ticket bought here allows access to all historic sites in the Carthage area, such as the Roman Theater, the baths, villas, etc. Consider hiring a guide to bring you around and explain the history of Tunisia and the story behind the ancient ruins. Early or late evening is the best time to visit, as there are fewer tour buses then.