Tunisian Culture

Tunisia is home to the cosmopolitan capital city of Tunis, the ancient ruins of Carthage, the Muslim and Jewish quarters of Jerba, and coastal resorts outside of Monastir. Tunisia is known for its golden beaches, sunny weather, and unique blend of Arab and Berber cultures and influence. Tunisians enjoy celebrating hundreds of international film, theatre, and music festivals, nationally, regionally, and locally. The country is famous for beautiful pottery, ironwork, and mosaics. Tunisian people are generally relaxed and sociable, but also emphasize showing respect for one another, especially their elders. Conformity to a group and concern for its well-being are usually more important than individual needs in Tunisia.

Host a Tunisian student in the U.S.

Tunisian People and Community

Family plays an important role in all social relations. Tunisia is a pioneer in women’s and children’s rights, with a strong presence of women at all institutional levels and in all economic sectors. However, Tunisian families tend to be patriarchal, traditional, and close-knit. Families typically consist of a father, mother, children, and grandparents. Tunisian parents have an average of two children in urban areas and five or six children in rural areas. Other relatives like aunts, uncles, and cousins may live in the same household or nearby. Grandparents often form close relationships with their grandchildren.

Language and Communication Styles

Arabic is the official language, and Tunisian Arabic, known as Tounsi or Derja, is the national variety of Arabic and is used by the public. French also widely used in education, the press, and in business, despite having no official status.

Food in Tunisia

Tunisian Food

Tunisian cuisine is influenced by the Mediterranean cuisine. The most popular dish in Tunisia is couscous, made of specially prepared semolina grains steamed and served with meat and vegetables. Tunisian diet includes a healthy dose of fresh seasonal vegetables and fruits, freshly baked bread, dairy products, olive oil, seafood (a wide range of fish) and meat (usually poultry) and can be quite spicy.