In Ben Arous, two travel interests lead to different traces of the past: Oudhna tells the story of a Roman city, while the visitor trails in Boukornine National Park bring its flora and fauna, as well as hiking, into focus. Archaeological structures and nature are thus presented side by side, without requiring you to choose just one way to explore.
Roman History and Urban Design
Oudhna was founded at the end of the 1st century BC as a colony for veterans of the Roman 13th Legion. The site may have existed before Roman rule in Africa, perhaps as early as the time of the indigenous Berber peoples of North Africa. This early origin is considered likely, but it has not been dated with certainty. In the 2nd century AD, the colony, then called Uthina, reached its heyday, particularly under Hadrian. Its founding and heyday therefore mark distinct stages in the city's history.
The amphitheater at Oudhna is partially cut into a hill on the northeastern edge of the city. It could hold around 16,000 spectators. The description thus brings together two specific features: its construction set into the hillside and the scale of the structure. The archaeological site also includes an ancient theater. The historic temple, known as the Temple of the Capitol, is also part of the site.
Mosaics in the House of Ikarios
The House of Ikarios covers about 2,300 m² and contains more than 30 rooms. A mosaic floor depicts a grape harvest; in the central scene, Dionysus gives Ikarios a vine branch. The floor thus brings together a depiction of the harvest and a mythological motif. The combination of domestic architecture and visual art adds another dimension to the site alongside its large public buildings. Several houses with mosaic-paved floors have also been uncovered at the archaeological site.
Baths, Water and a Sanctuary
The large public baths were a symmetrical building of the imperial type, covering about 10,000 m². Its two levels had different functions: the upper level contained hot and cold rooms, while the lower level was used to store firewood. This layout helps explain how the complex was organized, from the bathing areas to the supply of fuel. An aqueduct supplied Oudhna with water, including the baths. Large public cisterns stood southwest of the forum. Together, these structures illustrate different aspects of the city's infrastructure, while the Temple of the Capitol is another historic building at the site.
Trails in Boukornine National Park
Boukornine National Park offers three designated visitor trails: a general discovery trail, a trail for exploring the park's plant and animal diversity, and a hiking trail. Their focuses range from general exploration to wildlife and plant life, and hiking. If you are planning a hike, check the current trail conditions in advance.
To choose what to explore, consider the contrast: in Oudhna, the focus is on urban history, architectural forms and mosaics; in Boukornine National Park, the trails described draw attention to nature and hiking. Both offer different perspectives on the region.
Discover more destinations: Hammam Chott, Ez Zahra, Hammam Lif, Mornag, Tunis, Gafsa, Tatawin, Ariana.
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