Revitalize the Byrsa Acropolis and upgrade the Carthage National Museum 

A garden of gardens

The Byrsa Acropolis, high atop Byrsa Hill, is situated in a breathtaking location. The site encompasses rich, complex layers from across millennia, the heritage of nearly 3,000 years of Punic and Roman history. Any undertaking must be rooted in this diversity of cultures and civilizations. Yet diversity is not synonymous with excess, as is currently displayed by the site’s buildings, an impression exacerbated by the wide assortment of outdoor furnishings, signage, and surfacing. Buildings of no historical value are demolished so as to more clearly define the existing spaces and layouts. In a mosaic of landscapes, three lightweight, circular pavilions containing portions of the museum program are set uphill from the ruins. These “crowning pavilions” take into account archaeological considerations: they don’t have foundations and can be easily moved. Near the ruins, shade structures sprinkle the numerous possible paths through each space.

A mosaic of landscapes

The new gardens feature simple layouts, in contrast to the more wild landscape of Byrsa Hill. Each garden is adapted to its unique space. Those nestled between buildings are more decorative, while those open to the surrounding environment are less so. Located near the buildings, the Seminary Garden, Scholasticate Garden, Olive Garden, and Orchard form new areas that organize the outdoor spaces. Further downhill, the Punic Quarter Garden and Apse Garden frame the existing ruins. 

A series of terraces

A series of Roman terraces provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The terraces are clearly defined, their surfacing intentionally limited to a few materials (natural stone, gravel, and aggregate) so as to regain coherence and uniformity site-wide. Both their layout and use of locally-sourced reclaimed materials draw inspiration from the pathway to the Acropolis of Athens, designed by architect Dimitris Pikionis. Long benches are added, enabling visitors to admire the panoramic views. Plantings along the Eucalyptus Alley and Pine Alley, as well as at the Saint Louis Balcony, are enhanced.

New surfacing for Unesco Square

Unesco Square becomes a coherent space thanks to surfacing that stretches from the cathedral facade to the new museum entrance. Steps accompanied by a ramp enable ease of circulation through the different levels. Dense plantings are added to the rest of the square to enhance continuity with the hillside vegetation. Beneath this new canopy, a taxi and bus drop-off area is located downhill from the new welcome center.