The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has added the Tunisian island of Djerba on the list of World Heritage Sites, a move that was welcomed by the Tunisian people.
UNESCO took the decision at its 45th session in Saudi Arabia on Monday.
Tunisian Culture Minister Hayat Guettat Guermazi said “the Island of Djerba is a witness on a culture that embraces the world at these historic moments, and sends the humanity inspirational messages hailing differences and diversity as a real revolution. With this decision, the dreams of Djerba, the centerpiece of the Mediterranean, have become true.”
Located in the Mediterranean Sea, Djerba is also known as the “Island of Dreams” and symbolizes coexistence among religions.
It is located 500 kilometers south of the capital, Tunis, and includes the Ghriba Synagogue, the oldest Jewish synagogue in North Africa, dating back to about 2,500 years, and hosting thousands of Jewish pilgrims every year.
The island is also famed for its unique architectural designs, such as the “Housh al-Jerbi” and underground mosques.
