Tunisia is a North African country on the Mediterranean Sea, bordering Algeria and Libya. The country's history dates back to the 9th century BC, when Carthage was founded by the Phoenicians. Tunisia was then ruled by Romans, Arabs, Ottomans and French before gaining independence in 1956. Tunisia is known for its ancient architectural sites such as Carthage and the Great Mosque of Kairouan, its souks and its blue coast. The capital Tunis is located on the northeast coast of the country and is a cultural center.
