Tourbet el Bey stands as the most significant royal mausoleum in Tunisia. The monument serves as the final resting place for the Husainid dynasty rulers who governed from 1705 to 1957. Its distinctive green fish-scale domes crown an imposing quadrangular structure, blending Ottoman grandeur with Italianate stucco work and Andalusian tile motifs. Built during Ali Pasha II’s reign (1758–82), the interior reveals a spatial homage to Istanbul’s Hagia Sophia, where vaulted ceilings display intricate polychrome stucco arabesques. The tombs tell silent stories: male rulers are marked by marble carvings of their headgear (turbans or chechia caps), with tassel counts denoting rank, while women’s graves bear simple plaques. A courtyard paved with memorial slabs connects the chambers, their walls shimmering with historic ceramic tiles.

Built in the 17th century, Sidi Youssef Dey Mosque was the first Ottoman-style mosque in Tunis, designed by Andalusian architect Ibn Ghalib. Its eclectic mix of influences reflects the era’s cultural exchanges. Flanked by Turkish souqs — El Trouk (once tailors, now clothing and embroidery), El Berka (formerly a slave market, later jewellery traders), and El Bechamkia (slippers and shoes) — the mosque served the city’s Ottoman-era merchants. The minaret, topped with a distinctive green-tiled pyramidal crown, became a model for later Ottoman designs in Tunis. Its octagonal shape, novel at the time, subtly asserted Ottoman authority. Inside, the mosque houses the tombs of Youssef Dey, commander of the janissaries, and his family. Sidi Youssef remains an active mosque, so plan visits outside prayer times, when non-Muslim visitors may enter. Its striking architecture, both inside and out, anchors a neighbourhood rich with history.

To travel hopefully… and arrive in Mariatrost. Located on Purberg hill in Graz, this church is one of the best-known pilgrimage destinations in Styria. Many pilgrims from all over Europe converge here to ascend the 216 steps to the basilica that towers gloriously toward the heavens. The holy shrine to the Virgin Mary in the heart of this Baroque-style church isn’t the only attraction. Beautiful frescos and the impressive pulpit also await you at the magnificent, twin-spired Mariatrost Basilica.

If you're into contemporary art, Northern Rivers Community Gallery might be an interesting detour from beach days and outdoor activities. They have four exhibition spaces showing diverse artwork mostly by local artists, but not exclusively. Check their website to see what exhibitions, cultural programs and events are currently going on.