Ksibet el-Médiouni

Ksibet el-Médiouni is a coastal town in the Tunisian Sahel, located about 10 kilometers south of Monastir. It is part of the Monastir governorate and constitutes a municipality. Its history dates back to the Punic era, with discoveries of tombs dating from the 4^th century B.C. The town is also known for having housed a watchtower of the Almohads and for its saint founder, Mohamed Ben Abdallah Mediouni.

History and Origins

Punic Era

Punic tombs discovered in March 2024 suggest human presence as early as the 4^th century B.C.

Almohad Watchtower

Ksibet el-Médiouni is believed to have served as a surveillance point for the Almohads, aiming to control Christian incursions along the Tunisian coast.

Mohamed Ben Abdallah Mediouni

The saint founder of the town, who is believed to have lived in the 16^th and 17^th centuries, chose a hill overlooking the sea to establish his neighborhood and build a mosque.

Former Name

The town was formerly known as El Ksiba before the arrival of Mediouni.

Additional Information

• Recent Discoveries: Excavations have revealed Punic tombs dating from the 4^th century B.C.
• Craftsmanship: The town is renowned for its traditional craftsmanship, particularly the production of handmade carpets.
• Recent Events: In 2014, a trial took place for youths from Ksibet el-Médiouni, related to protests following the assassination of Chokri Belaid.
• Environmental Issues: The town faces ecological problems related to marine pollution and the proliferation of algae, threatening fishing, the main source of income for the residents.