Wednesday, December 22, 2010

Carthage

           Carthage refers to a series of Phoenician cities on the Gulf Of Tunis. The first civilisation that developed within the city's sphere of influence is referred to as Punic or Carthaginian. Located on the eastern site of lake Tunis across from the centre of Tunis. Carthage was built on a promontory with inlets to the sea to the north and south. The strategic location made it master of the Mediterranean's maritime trade. Between Sicily and the coast of Tunisia , all ships that crossing the sea had to pass this great power and influence city of Carthage.
 
Carthage Ruins
          Carthage was one of the largest cities in Hellenistic time , with massive walls measuring 23 miles in length. The walls located on the shore and never been penetrated, as the Carthaginian control of the sea that made attack from the direction are difficult.

Roman Influence At Carthage
          The city's town planning comprises of burial ground , religious area, market places, council house , towers and a theater and was divided into four equal size residential area with the same layout. In the middle of the city stood high citadel called the Byrsa.
 
Saint Louis Cathedral
          Saint Louis Cathedral or the Byrsa  is an old Roman Catholic cathedral located in Carthage Tunisia. Situated on the peak of  Byrsa hill , and was built by the French in 1890 and dedicated to the 13th century saint king who died on the shores of Carthage in 1290. Today it's only used for cultural centers.

         What a great city's and civilization , Carthage stands as the historical sites although it has been destroyed during the era of the Roman due to the possibilities of being a rival for the empire . History can't be changed, the ruins and still preserved standing monuments prove Carthage was a  significant center for art and culture in this land of the Hannibal's, Tunisia.

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