My Life in Ruins

Many religions runs deep in the veins of early history in Tunisia. Christianity, Islam, Judaism and several shades of each contribute to Tunisia's magic. But the remains that most define this country's historical glory are found in Roman mythology. Something like 200 Roman cities were established in just the northern half of Tunisia.

Day 3 and my little press troupe of 5 fondly leave the whitewashed houses of the Mediterranean coastline for the sandy city of Sbeïtla. More sun-drenched ruins await us.

Built between 100-300AD, these are the stunning Capitoline temples dedicated to Gods Jupiter (middle), Juno (right) and Minerva (left). Surprisingly, this area is free for a curious public to climb, crawl and run all over. Walls of terra-cotta stone and tall handsome Corinthian columns grace the giant forum. It's easy to imagine how splendid this city once was with preservation like this.

We were rushed for time but still got to see the baptistry basin of the Basilica of St Vitalis and what's left of the Church of St Servus.