Mahdia was the first capital of the Fatimid Caliphs, and today it wears its great age well. The medina occupies the narrow promontory that points east as if showing the way to Malta. Here, whitewashed houses with ornate green doors cluster along cobbled lanes, and shops selling local silk and cotton textiles spill their wares onto the street.

Land access to the promontory is guarded by the imposing ancient gatehouse, Skifa el Kahla, while at the sea-facing end you’ll see the solitary arch which is all that remains of the Gate of Conquests. The whole medina would have once been surrounded by defensive walls, but instead there are sea glimpses all around.

Top three things to do in Mahdia

Soak up some history

Not much remains of the original Fatimid citadel, but the exception is the Skifa el Kahla gate – also known as Bab Zouila - which is 33 metres high. It has stood here since 916, when it was part of the fortifications surrounding the original town. To enter, you’ll pass through a narrow, vaulted passage almost 50m long.

Seek out the catch of the day

Mahdia’s fishing port is one of Tunisia’s busiest, so find a spot to settle down and watch the boats come and go. Colourful boats sitting in the dry dock and fishing nets being repaired are all part of the picture. The harbour area is a good place to find fresh fish and seafood at the restaurants nearby.

Watch weavers at work

The traditional dress of Mahdia is Tunisia’s most elaborate, and even now the town is known for its skilled weavers and quality fabrics spun through with gold thread. As you wander the lanes of the medina, you’ll see weaver’s workshops with old-fashioned looms where these fine textiles are made by hand.