Sbeitla (Sufetula)
Three Roman temples standing side by side in the forum — unique in the empire. A Byzantine basilica and bishop's palace stand intact. Allow 2 hours; the on-site museum is small but worth it.
Centre · Tunisia
Kasserine
Tunisia's roof — Mount Chambi (1,544 m), Sbeitla's Roman forum.
Kasserine contains the highest point in Tunisia — Mount Chambi, 1,544 m — and a long stretch of the Tunisian-Algerian border. The landscape is high, dry and pine-covered.
Its archaeological star is Sbeitla (ancient Sufetula), with three Roman temples standing side by side in the forum — an arrangement unique in the empire — and an intact Byzantine basilica.
Kasserine has been historically marginalised, but is increasingly on the radar for hiking and ecotourism in the Chambi National Park.
What to see in Kasserine
Chambi National Park
Tunisia's highest peak (1,544 m), pine forests and Barbary deer. Hiking is by guided permit only; arrange in Kasserine town.
Cillium (modern Kasserine ruins)
A Roman mausoleum and theatre on the edge of town — a quick stop on the way to Sbeitla.
Thala and Haïdra
Two further Roman sites in the western highlands. Haïdra has Tunisia's largest Byzantine fortress and a forum almost lost in wildflowers in spring.
Getting there
300 km southwest of Tunis (4h by car). Louages from Tunis and Sfax. The closest airport is Sfax-Thyna (SFA), 150 km east.
Where to stay
Hotel Cillium in Kasserine town is the practical base. For Sbeitla, the small Hotel Sufetula sits right at the archaeological site entrance — convenient if you want golden-hour photos.
Food & culture
Kasserine highlands produce excellent honey, pine nuts and aromatic mountain herbs (white wormwood, rosemary). Try couscous with rosemary lamb and a glass of local rose syrup.
Practical tips
Chambi National Park access requires a permit due to past security incidents; the park itself is now safe and well managed but bureaucratic. Don't venture into the park without an official guide. Sbeitla has no shade — visit early or late.
Frequently asked questions about Kasserine
Is Sbeitla worth a special trip?+
Yes, especially as part of a southwest loop combining Kairouan, Sbeitla and Tozeur. The three-temple forum is one of Tunisia's great Roman sights.
Is Kasserine safe in 2026?+
Yes for the towns and main archaeological sites. Mount Chambi requires a guided permit because of past Algerian-border tensions, now closely managed.
How long do I need at Sbeitla?+
Two hours for the site; three if you include the museum.