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Borj el Kebir

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Borj el Kebir, also known as Borj El Ghazi Mustapha, is the most significant fortress on Djerba Island, strategically located on the northern shore of Houmt Souk. The current structure largely dates back to the 15th century, when it was constructed by the Hafsid dynasty over the ruins of an earlier Roman and Sicilian fortification. In 1560, the fort became the site of the pivotal Battle of Djerba, where the Ottoman fleet led by Dragut and Piali Pasha secured a major victory against a Christian alliance. Following this triumph, the Ottomans extensively expanded and reinforced the walls to ensure permanent control over the island and its maritime surroundings. The complex features massive stone ramparts, sturdy bastions, and a grand entrance that was once defended by a functional drawbridge. Visitors today can walk along the expansive terraces, which offer sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and the historic harbor area. Inside the fortress, various archaeological finds are displayed, chronicling the island's long history as a strategic crossroad for Mediterranean cultures.

Location: Tunisia
Top sights: Sidi Salem · Abou Mesouar mosquée · Musée du patrimoine traditionnel de Djerba
Nearby: Mezraya (9 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Nov.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	15	14	15	17	20	23	26	27	27	24	20	17
Rain mm	20	24	25	12	8	3	0	3	26	30	38	44

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Borj el Kebir (the Great Fort) in Houmt Souk is open for visitation; the courtyard and some rooms are accessible. From the fortress walls, you get an excellent view of the sea and the city.

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Typical hours

The fortress is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, possibly shorter in winter. On Fridays, hours may vary due to prayer.

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Photography

Photography is allowed without restrictions inside the fortress and from the walls. Using a tripod may require a permit.

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Time needed

Visiting the fortress usually takes about one hour. If you also explore the surrounding souks and beaches, plan for half a day.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with Houmt Souk's old town and the Archaeological Museum. Djerba's beaches are also easily reachable.

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Getting there

The fortress is centrally located in Houmt Souk, walkable from the port or bus station. Parking is available on surrounding streets.

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Insider tip

Visit the fortress in the late afternoon for better light and sunset views. Combine with a stroll along the city walls.

Geography

Coordinates

33.88270, 10.86000

Facts

The current fortress was constructed in the 15th century by the Hafsids.
It is built upon the remains of an ancient Roman fortification.
Site of the famous Battle of Djerba in 1560 involving the Ottoman fleet.
Extensively expanded in the 16th century by the privateer Dragut Pasha.
Named after the Ottoman governor Ghazi Mustapha.
Features a deep defensive moat and massive stone bastions.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Houmt Souk<1 km · SExplore →

El Ghriba Synagogue8 km · SExplore →

Djerba Ostrich Farm9 km · SExplore →

Mezraya9 km · EExplore →

El Groa11 km · SWExplore →

Djerba11 km · SExplore →

Midoun15 km · SEExplore →

El Haddada20 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Borj el Kebir (10)

Sidi Salem 📍 landmark

The Sidi Salem site is a traditional spiritual attraction on the island of Djerba.

Abou Mesouar mosquée 📍 landmark

The Abou Mesouar mosque stands out with its traditional Ibadi architecture on Djerba.

Musée du patrimoine traditionnel de Djerba 🏛 museum

The traditional heritage museum of Djerba showcases authentic craftsmanship and local costumes.

🌐 djerbamuseum.tn

Borj el Ghazi Mustapha 🏛 museum

The museum in the Borj el Ghazi Mustapha presents exhibits on the turbulent fortress history of Djerba.

Tafroujen mosquée📍 landmark

The Tafroujen mosque is a historic Islamic place of worship with simple white walls.

Plage El Hachen (Ras Rmel)🎡 recreation

The sandy Plage El Hachen beach on the Ras Rmel peninsula invites you to relax by the Mediterranean.

Nécropole de Ghizen🏺 historical

The archaeological necropolis of Ghizen provides insights into ancient burial rites on Djerba.

Site archéologique Ghizen 🏺 historical

The Ghizen archaeological site encompasses ancient settlement traces in the Djerban landscape.

Flamingo Island 🎡 recreation

A coastal sandy beach located on the peninsula known for its flamingo flocks near Borj el Kebir.

Amphitheatre 🎭 culture

A modern arts centre built in the style of a classical open-air amphitheatre on the Djerba coast.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is Borj el Kebir?

An impressive fortress on the coast of Djerba from the 15th century.

When is the best time to visit?

In spring or autumn, the weather is well-suited for exploring the outdoor areas.

Is it suitable for families?

Yes, the spacious area is very suitable for a family excursion.

Is there parking?

There is sufficient parking directly in front of or in the near vicinity of the fortress.

Is there food available?

Less so directly at the fortress, but you will find numerous cafes in Houmt Souk.

Borj el Kebir: where is it located?

Borj el Kebir is located in Tunisia.

Borj el Kebir: what is there to see?

Highlights include Sidi Salem, Abou Mesouar mosquée, Musée du patrimoine traditionnel de Djerba.

Borj el Kebir: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Nov.

Borj el Kebir: why is it worth visiting?

Borj el Kebir, also known as Borj El Ghazi Mustapha, is the most significant fortress on Djerba Island, strategically located on the northern shore of Houmt Souk.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Borj el Kebir

Best time to visit & climate