Declared the capital of Tunisia in the year 921, Mahdia lies on the eastern coast between the resorts of Sfax and Sousse. This old fortress city has a 10 metre thick wall around it and has cobbled streets and alleyways offering market stalls and bazaars, as well as the fish market, which is worth a visit.
The modern hotels line one of Tunisia`s finest length of beach in this quiet, relaxing resort, where you will see fishermen fixing their nets and silk weavers in the Rue Sidi Jaber.
The Sailor`s cemetary, at the eastern end of the peninsula, is laid out so that almost every grave can have a seaview, relating to Mahdia's long history of piracy, fishing and sailors. It starts in front of the Borj el-Kebir and continues all the way past the Fatimid port, ending next to the lighthouse. At its eastern end lies the Zaouia of Sidi Jabeur. At the end of the peninsula you will find the `Cape Africa` red lighthouse.