Monastir, Tunisia
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| Monastir, Tunisia | |
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  Monastir, Tunisia
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| Coordinates: | |
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| Country |  Tunisia |
| Governorate | Medenine Governorate |
| Population (2004) | |
| - Total | 71, 546 |
| Time zone | CET (UTC1) |
Monastir (Arabic: المـنسـتير al-munastîr, from Latin monasterium), called /lmisti:r/ in Tunisian Arabic, (20 km south of Sousse; 162 km south of Tunis), is a city on the central shore of Tunisia, in the Sahel area. Traditionally a fishing port, Monastir is now a major tourist resort. Its population is 41,400. Located in north-eastern Tunisia, it is the capital of Monastir Governorate.
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[edit] History
Monastir was founded on the ruins of the Punic–Roman city of Ruspina. The city features a well preserved Ribat that was used to scan the sea for hostile ships. Several ulema came to stay to the Ribat of this peaceful city for contemplation. The Ribat was also one of the filming locations for Monty Python's Life Of Brian.
[edit] Transportation
The city has Monastir (Habib Bourguiba) International Airport with flights from most Western European countries. It is run by TAV Airports.
[edit] Miscellaneous
Tunisian president Habib Bourguiba was born there, and his mausoleum is built there.
[edit] External links
- (French) (English) Monastir-Tunisia.com Official website
- (French) USMonastir.com, official web site of the local multi-sports team
