The archaeological richness of Carthage

Carthage is an exceptional place for the mixing and dissemination of several cultures that reflect the splendour of the civilizations that have occupied this context. It still possesses exceptional remains extending over a protected area of 200 hectares. Unesco a décidé de classer et de sauver ce trésor de l’Antiquité:

‘‘ Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List and classified as a cultural site by Decree 85-1246 of 7 October 1985, all the sites of Carthage-Sidi Bousaid are considered, according to the Heritage Code, as cultural sites, sites that bear witness to the works of man or nature or to the combined works of man and nature. Archaeological sites that present the point of view of history, aesthetics, art or tradition a national or international value .’’ *

The illegal and uncontrolled urbanization is dangerously encroaching on this area classified by Unesco. It is due to the illegal constructions of the bandits and the negligence of the state because of the unstable political situation of Tunisia.

Since 2012, UNESCO has stated that it is once again concerned about the situation in Carthage, and does not hesitate to accuse the public authorities of negligence in their management of the site. In 2018, the World Heritage Committee, which follows the evolution of classified sites, invites the State to specify the boundaries of the site and to establish a ‘‘ Buffer zone’’ to respect its integrity.

* Ministry of Equipment, Housing and Territorial Development: Atlas of landscapes in Tunisia