El Jem
Just over an hour’s drive south of Sousse the Punic town of Thysdrus is better known today as El Jem. No doubt a thriving city during the Roman conquest of Tunisia, its surrounding agricultural lands produced the much needed wheat and olive oil for Rome’s citizens.
A grandiose Coliseum 2nd to Rome’s in size could accommodate 35,000 spectators. Built around 200AD it was the scene of cruel and bloody games Romans were fond of. Today, the agonizing cries of humans and beasts have been replaced by the haunting sounds of beautiful music from concerts as world famous orchestras and artists perform during the classical festival each summer.
Driving towards the amphitheatre the sight of it as you approach is rather wondrous and strange as the present surroundings give no hint of its former importance.
The small but rather interesting museum has a beautiful collection of mosaics and innumerable Roman objects used during every day life.
Today, workshops where local artists are re-discovering the art of mosaics are found at the site
Special Notes:
Comfortable clothing and walking shoes recommended.
Mostly flat and partially uneven ground within the ruins.
No photography allowed in the museum.
Comfort stops available at site.
Tour suitable for wheelchair confined persons and with limited walking capabilities
Tour Timings:
Tours begin at times suitable for the ship's arrival in port. The breakdown of the excursions is as follows:
00hr00 -> Excursion departs from Sousse Port
00hr00 -> 01hr15 Drive to El Jem
01hr15 -> 02hr45 Visit the site
02hr45 -> 03hr00 Free time at the site to shop for souvenirs
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