Mahdia
Country: Tunisia
Region: Africa
Period: 921-973CE
Location: 35.5°N, 11.066667°E
Description
Mahdia is a coastal city in Tunisia, historically significant as the capital of the Zirid dynasty in the 10th century. The city, founded in 916 by the Zirid ruler, al-Mansur, became a major political, cultural, and commercial center during the dynasty's rule.
Modern Remains
Today, Mahdia is a vibrant town in Tunisia that retains much of its historical character. The remnants of the Zirid-era fortifications, including the famous Borj el-Kebir (Great Fortress), are still standing, offering insight into the city's strategic importance. Mahdia’s historic medina, its ancient port, and the old mosques are key attractions for tourists and scholars interested in the region's medieval Islamic history. The city remains a significant cultural and historical site in Tunisia, reflecting its rich past as a capital of the Zirid dynasty.