Tunis (original) (raw)

Tunis is the capital of Tunisia. Population 674,100 (1994).

Geography

The city is located on the Lake of Tunis, and is connected to the Gulf of Tunis, an arm of the Mediterranean Sea, by a canal terminating at the port of Halq al Wadi.

Economy

Products include textiles, carpets, and olive oil. Tourism is an important source of the city's income.

History

Tunis became the capital of Tunisia under the Hafsid dynasty, and was a leading center of trade with Europe. The Turks took the city in 1534. After 1591, the Turkish governors (Beys) were virtually independent, and the city prospered as a center of piracy and trade. The French occupied the city from 1881 to 1956. During World War II, Tunis was held by Axis forces from November, 1942, to May, 1943, and was their last base in Africa. The Arab League was headquartered in Tunis from 1979 to 1990.

Miscellaneous topics

Tunis is the site of the University of Tunis.

The ruins of Carthage are nearby, to the northeast.

Tunis is served by the Tunis-Carthage Airport.