Tunisia Celebrates Roman Heritage at El-Jem Festival

The 7th edition of the 'Thysdrus Rome Days' festival was held on April 27, 2024 at the UNESCO World Heritage Site amphitheater in El-Jem, Tunisia. The event, sponsored by the Tunisian Ministry of Cultural Affairs, featured a variety of activities to promote the cultural, tourism, and economic sectors through the rediscovery of Roman heritage and archaeological sites in Tunisia.

Highlights of the festival included simulations of gladiator fights, ancient music concerts, theatrical performances, workshops on tools and mosaics, archery, traditional local cuisine, and Roman dances. The Roman amphitheater of El-Jem, the third largest after those in Rome and Capua, recently twinned with the Colosseum Archaeological Park and served as the main attraction. The Legio XII Fulminata/Ludus Aemilius de Cesena gladiators from Cesena, Italy performed for the third time under the direction of Milo Montalti.

Tunisia's Culture Minister Mohamed Mouaz Bilheshine attended the festival, which showcased the Roman heritage and culture at the historic El-Jem amphitheater. Gladiator fights were staged with Roman Empire costumes as part of the festival's events.

Why this matters: The Roman Days Festival in El-Jem highlights Tunisia's efforts to preserve and promote its rich cultural heritage. By celebrating the country's Roman past, the event aims to boost tourism and economic development in the region.

The festival was organized by the 'We love El-Jem' association with the official patronage of the Agency for the Enhancement of Heritage and Cultural Promotion (AMVPPC), the support of the National Establishment for the Promotion of Festivals and Cultural and Artistic Events (ENPFMCA), and funding from the European Union under the 'Tounes Wijhetouna' program. "The event is a great opportunity to uncover the richness of our heritage and to promote the image of Tunisia as a country that has managed to preserve the diversity of the civilizations that have succeeded one another on its soil," said Bilheshine.

Key Takeaways

• 7th edition of 'Thysdrus Rome Days' festival held in El-Jem, Tunisia on April 27, 2024.
• Festival featured gladiator fights, music, performances, workshops, and traditional cuisine.
• El-Jem amphitheater, the 3rd largest after Rome and Capua, was the main attraction.
• Event organized to promote Tunisia's Roman heritage and boost tourism and economy.
• Supported by Tunisian government agencies and the European Union's 'Tounes Wijhetouna' program.