Going up the hill in Carthage, the road diverges into the woods to the dome of the Acropolium of Carthage, also known as the Saint Louis Cathedral, topping the hill. The Acropolium, is a Roman Catholic church and sits on the peak of Byrsa Hill, near the ruins of the ancient Punic and then Roman city. It was built atop the ruins of an old temple dedicated to Eshmun, the Punic god of healing. Saint Louis Cathedral, built during the rule of the Beys, is of deep historical and religious significance. In 1830, Hussein Bey II granted permission to the general council of France to build a church on the site of ancient Carthage. The Cathedral was built between 1884 and 1890, under the French protectorate, the cathedral acquired primacy for all of Africa when the title of primate of Africa was restored for the benefit of Cardinal Lavigerie, titular of the Archdioceses of Algiers and of Carthage, united in his person. The building was consecrated with great pomp in the presence of numerous ecclesiastical dignitaries. From afar, the domes of the cathedral beckon onlookers to explore the fine architecture, rich history and cultural events the cathedral hosts. The edifice can still be accessed from the basement. Since 1993, the cathedral has been known as the "Acropolium". It is no longer used for worship, but instead hosts public events or concerts of Tunisian music and classical music. Currently, the only Roman Catholic cathedral operating in Tunisia is the Cathedral of St. Vincent de Paul in Tunis.

I visited this magnificent structure as part of my one day trip, located atop Byrsa Hill, by the side archeological ruins of Carthage. Also called as Acropolium , a former Catholic Church but no longer used for worship. It appears many ceremonial events and concerts take place in this building. At the time of my visit, some renovations are going on.

It’s hard not to miss. On tour of old Roman ruins this beautiful building is just next door. My local driver proudly tells me “it’s a Catholic chruch, in Tunisa we ok with all religions “ . This is a beautiful and impressive but strangle simply building. Unfortunately it was shut when arrived and was therefore unable to visit inside. The calming atmosphere was a little spoilt by the local stall owners interrupting my driver and I with a script which ended in “come see my shop”.

I took the train from Sidi Bou Said to Carthage Hannibal Station, about 3 stops away. The walk from the Train Station was long and uphill. I was ready to give up when I saw the roofs of this church. There are steps still under construction that I took to reach it. Currently, it is closed for renovation. It is huge and beautiful, took several pictures here before going to the Ticket Office to buy the ticket for the Archeological Sites.