Oceanographic Museum | Bizerte

The Oceanographic Museum of Bizerte is a small but historically rich maritime museum located in Fort Sidi El Henni (also called La Ksiba), at the entrance of the old port in Bizerte, northern Tunisia. It is one of the oldest museums of its kind in the region and offers a blend of natural science, marine life, and historical exhibits, all within a coastal fortification of great architectural and cultural value.

Historical Background

Fort Sidi El Henni dates back to Byzantine times, later modified by Arab, Ottoman, and French occupants.

The fort was strategically important due to Bizerte's position as a key Mediterranean port.

The Oceanographic Museum was founded in 1924, making it one of Tunisia’s earliest scientific museums dedicated to marine studies.

Originally established as a marine research center, it later expanded to educate the public on Tunisia’s marine biodiversity and maritime traditions.

Museum Layout and Architecture

The museum is housed inside the fort, which features thick stone walls, arched doorways, and watchtowers.

A decorative fountain adorned with seashells greets visitors at the entrance.

The interior is divided into multiple sections across two levels, with exhibits spread through former military quarters.

The upper floor includes a café furnished in traditional Tunisian style, with panoramic views over the port and city.

Exhibits and Collections

Marine Life

Aquariums contain species from the Mediterranean Sea, including:

Groupers, sea bass, and rays

Starfish, sea urchins, octopuses, and moray eels

Loggerhead turtles and crabs

A large preserved shark and various taxidermied specimens are on display.

Maritime Artifacts

Models of traditional fishing boats like the felucca and chalutier.

Nautical instruments such as compasses, barometers, sextants, and anchors.

Maps and navigation charts used historically for Mediterranean sailing routes.

Black-and-white photographs documenting Bizerte’s fishing communities and port development.

Scientific and Cultural Panels

Panels explain:

The role of Posidonia oceanica (seagrass) in marine ecosystems

Coastal erosion and conservation issues in Tunisia

Fishing techniques used in the Bizerte Lagoon and open sea

Climate change impact on marine biodiversity

Educational Role

The museum frequently hosts school groups and university students, especially those studying marine biology or environmental science.

It aims to raise awareness about:

Overfishing

Pollution and plastic waste in the sea

Wetland protection

Some displays are interactive or designed for younger audiences.

Visitor Experience

The museum’s ambiance—an old fortress filled with marine curiosities—adds to its appeal.

While some exhibits are aged and may lack modern interactive technology, the museum’s authenticity and atmosphere are often praised.

The rooftop café offers a quiet resting place with a view over Bizerte’s harbor, perfect for photography.

Practical Information

Location: Fort Sidi El Henni, Old Port, Bizerte, Tunisia

Coordinates: 37.2768° N, 9.8659° E

Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30 AM – 12:00 PM (closed Mondays)

Entry Fee: Approximately 500 millimes (0.5 TND), which is symbolic

Best Time to Visit: Morning hours, especially on weekdays to avoid local crowds

Accessibility: Some parts of the fort are not wheelchair accessible due to stairs and uneven surfaces

How to Get There

From downtown Bizerte, it’s a 10–15 minute walk along the coastal road.

Easily reachable by local taxi or shared minibuses from the central bus station.

Parking available nearby along the old port road.

This museum is an excellent stop for anyone interested in Tunisia’s marine life, seafaring traditions, or historical architecture, particularly when combined with a walking tour of Bizerte’s old medina and port.