Temple of the Waters
A 2nd-century Roman nymphaeum at the foot of Mount Zaghouan. A semicircle of niches once held statues over the spring source; the structure still survives and the spring still flows.
North · Tunisia
Zaghouan
Mountain water source — Roman aqueducts and the Temple of Waters.
Zaghouan is built against a 1,295 m massif that towers over the eastern plain. Its limestone springs supplied Roman Carthage through the Zaghouan-to-Carthage aqueduct, the longest in the Roman Empire.
The most striking ruin is the Temple of Waters at the foot of the mountain — a semicircular nymphaeum that captured the spring water at its source.
Today Zaghouan is a hiking and weekend-getaway destination, with cool air, olive groves and several boutique guesthouses in restored Andalusian villages like Takrouna and Zriba El Olia.
What to see in Zaghouan
The Zaghouan-Carthage aqueduct
132 km long, the largest in the Roman Empire. The most spectacular arches are between Mohammedia and Oudna — a sunset photo stop on the drive back to Tunis.
Takrouna and Zriba El Olia
Two abandoned Andalusian and Berber stone villages perched on volcanic outcrops. Both are being restored as guesthouse villages. Sunset light is unforgettable.
Mount Zaghouan
1,295 m, with a moderate 4-hour hike to the summit. The trailhead is at the Temple of Waters; spring (March–May) is the best time for wildflowers and cool air.
Getting there
60 km south of Tunis — 50 minutes by car on the A1 motorway. No direct train. Louages run from Tunis Moncef Bey and from Hammamet. A guided day tour from Tunis is the simplest option for non-drivers.
Where to stay
Two standout options: Dar Zaghouan (a working organic farm with an excellent restaurant) and the boutique guesthouses in Zriba El Olia. For larger groups, several villas around Bouficha sit halfway between Tunis and Hammamet.
Food & culture
Zaghouan grows excellent olive oil, fresh cheese and orchard fruit. The Dar Zaghouan kitchen is one of the best slow-food experiences in Tunisia. Locally distilled fig spirit (boukha) is a Zaghouan trademark.
Practical tips
Bring layers — Zaghouan is consistently 5–8 °C cooler than Tunis. The mountain trail is unmarked in places; a local guide (35–50 TND) is sensible. Avoid weekends in spring when Tunisois families fill the picnic spots around the Temple.
Frequently asked questions about Zaghouan
Can I visit Zaghouan as a day trip from Tunis?+
Yes — easily. Most travellers combine the Temple of Waters, Zriba El Olia and lunch at Dar Zaghouan in a single day.
Is Mount Zaghouan a hard hike?+
Moderate. About 4 hours round trip with 700 m of ascent. Suitable for anyone with regular hiking fitness; bring water.
When is the best time to visit Zaghouan?+
April–June and September–November. Summer is hot, winter can be rainy and cold at altitude.