With Tunisie Transferts & Tours
Discover Fort El Ghazi Mustapha
Ottoman Memory
Borj El Ghazi Mustapha – Djerba
Borj El Kebir, also known as Borj El Ghazi Mustapha, is the largest and best-preserved fortress on the island of Djerba. Located 500 meters north of Houmt Souk near the fishing port, it overlooks the coast and offers panoramic views of the town and sea. Built in the 15th century on the ruins of the Roman city of Girba, it was expanded in the 16th century by Caïd Ghazi Mustapha, appointed by Dragut, and remains a remarkable example of military architecture from that era.
With Tunisie Transferts & Tours, enjoy airport–hotel transfers to Djerba and across Tunisia in optimal comfort. Professional multilingual drivers, modern vehicles (Sedan, Minivan, Microbus), Wi-Fi, air conditioning and free baby seats: everything is designed to make your tourist or business travel pleasant, reliable and punctual.
An Iconic Historical Monument
Built on a rectangular base with round and square towers, Borj El Kebir is a major architectural landmark of Djerba. Its entrance gate, once equipped with a drawbridge and overlooking a defensive moat, leads to a vast inner courtyard with remnants of successive garrisons. The ramparts offer impressive views of the port, the sea and an obelisk marking the site of Borj-er-Rous, adding historical depth to the visit.
History and Evolution
Originally built in the 15th century and renovated in the 16th by Ghazi Mustapha Bey, the fort witnessed many military and historical events, including the naval battle of Djerba. Under French protectorate, it served as a military base and was declared a historic monument in 1904. Today, it houses zaouïas and a museum displaying artifacts found during excavations, allowing visitors to explore the island’s rich past.
Remarkable Defensive Architecture
The fort exemplifies Mediterranean military architecture. Its walls, over ten meters high and more than a meter thick, along with its towers and drawbridge, reflect advanced defense techniques of the time. Inside the enclosure, remnants such as apartments, a mosque and an antiquarium highlight the strategic and cultural importance of Borj El Kebir for the island of Djerba.
A Cultural and Touristic Site
Today, Borj El Kebir attracts many visitors intrigued by its history and views. The ramparts and lookout points offer stunning perspectives of the town, port and surrounding coastline. History and heritage enthusiasts can explore the fort’s interior, while photographers enjoy unique angles to capture the beauty of this iconic site in southern Tunisia.
Activities and Visit
Combining historical discovery, scenic walks and cultural immersion, Borj El Ghazi Mustapha offers a complete experience for all visitors. Whether admiring its architecture, visiting the zaouïas or enjoying panoramic views, each visit reveals the strategic and cultural significance of this emblematic monument of Djerba’s heritage.
With its military architecture, rich history and coastal scenery, Borj El Kebir is a must-see for anyone wishing to explore Djerba in all its splendor and historical depth.
Want to visit Borj El Ghazi Mustapha in Djerba? Need a personalized transfer or excursion?
Our team is ready to organize your tailor-made journey or visit.
