Overlooking the fertile valley of Khalled, with cicadas ringing in the background, Dougga is nestled amongst an orchard of olive trees. The setting is enchanting and worthy of a picnic - the perfect antidote to half day's sightseeing around this great site is to lie in the shade of the orchard sipping chilled wine as you contemplate the former glories of Dougga.

Judging by the impressive ruins, such glories must have been impressive, for the site of Dougga is considered, for its diversity and beauty, amongst the most spectacular not only of Tunisia but indeed of the whole of North Africa. The theatre, with a capacity of about 3,500, is one of the best preserved in Africa with glorious views out over the valley below. The capitol is grand and imposing.