The old town (medina) as it is seen now came to be in Ottoman times. When the Italians took over the town in 1911 it began to grow rapidly. Throughout most of its history it has been the gateway to sub-Saharan Africa and an important start or end point of many trading caravan routes. The colourful old town (medina) bustles with life and blends into the modern avenues, all of which are a joy to wander through.
