Punic Town Of Kerkuane And Its Necropolis

Guide to the Punic Town of Kerkuane and Its Necropolis

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the fascinating Punic Town of Kerkuane and its captivating Necropolis! Situated in modern-day Tunisia, this ancient Carthaginian settlement is a must-visit for anyone with an interest in history, archaeology, or cultural exploration. This guide aims to provide you with all the essential information you need to fully appreciate your visit to Kerkuane and its Necropolis.

Location

Kerkuane is located on the eastern coast of Tunisia, approximately 150 kilometers southeast of Sousse and 70 kilometers north of Kebili. The town lies near the Gulf of Gabes and is part of the Chenini-Kerkuane UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

Founded in the 4th century BC as a Carthaginian trading post, Kerkuane quickly grew into an important town due to its strategic location along trade routes between Carthage and the Sahara. The site was abandoned in the 3rd century AD following the Roman conquest of Numidia (modern-day Tunisia).

Architecture and Layout

The layout of Kerkuane is unique, with houses built in a grid pattern around a central square. Many of the buildings feature intricate mosaics, some of which are still preserved today. The town’s defensive walls, dating back to the 3rd century BC, encircle the entire settlement and offer a glimpse into the importance of protection during this era.

Necropolis

Just outside the town lies Kerkuane’s necropolis, an extensive burial ground containing hundreds of tombs dating from the 4th to 3rd centuries BC. The necropolis offers insights into Punic funerary customs and the social structure of the ancient Carthaginian society.

Highlights of Kerkuane

  1. House of the Mosaics: One of the best-preserved houses in Kerkuane, it showcases beautiful mosaics featuring scenes from mythology and everyday life.

  2. Temple of Tanit: Dedicated to the Carthaginian goddess Tanit, the temple is an essential landmark in Kerkuane and offers a glimpse into religious practices during this era.

  3. Defensive Walls: Walk along the ancient defensive walls to gain a sense of the town’s history and appreciate its strategic location.

  4. Necropolis: Explore the necropolis to learn about Punic funerary customs, including the use of sarcophagi and the practice of offering goods for the deceased.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours:

  • Summer (April - September): 8 AM - 7 PM
  • Winter (October - March): 8 AM - 5 PM

Admission:

  • Adults: 3 Tunisian Dinars (TD) / 1 Euro
  • Students and children under 12 years: Free admission

Tips for Your Visit

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as there is a lot of ground to cover in Kerkuane.
  • Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
  • Respect the site and do not touch or remove any artifacts.
  • If you plan on visiting other archaeological sites in Tunisia, consider purchasing a Tunisian Archaeological Sites Ticket (Carte Biblo). This ticket offers reduced admission prices to many sites across Tunisia.
  • Always ask for permission before taking photographs.

Conclusion

We hope this guide has given you a better understanding of the Punic Town of Kerkuane and its Necropolis. This extraordinary site offers a unique glimpse into ancient Carthaginian life, making it an essential destination for anyone with an interest in history or archaeology. Enjoy your visit!