Built in the 17th century, Sidi Youssef Dey Mosque was the first Ottoman-style mosque in Tunis, designed by Andalusian architect Ibn Ghalib. Its eclectic mix of influences reflects the era’s cultural exchanges. Flanked by Turkish souqs — El Trouk (once tailors, now clothing and embroidery), El Berka (formerly a slave market, later jewellery traders), and El Bechamkia (slippers and shoes) — the mosque served the city’s Ottoman-era merchants. The minaret, topped with a distinctive green-tiled pyramidal crown, became a model for later Ottoman designs in Tunis. Its octagonal shape, novel at the time, subtly asserted Ottoman authority. Inside, the mosque houses the tombs of Youssef Dey, commander of the janissaries, and his family. Sidi Youssef remains an active mosque, so plan visits outside prayer times, when non-Muslim visitors may enter. Its striking architecture, both inside and out, anchors a neighbourhood rich with history.

The small, romantic capital of the world's only grand duchy makes for a perfect weekend getaway. Take a stroll along panoramic Chemin de la Corniche, and be sure to visit the Grand Ducal Palace, the tunnels of Bock Casemates, and the vast art collection of MUDAM.

This cave is a spectacular jewel of natural phenomena. It was discovered in 1840, and opened to the public in 1908. An indeed unusual excursion into what looks like another world.