Of origin phenician, from where its ancient name of Rousspenna. Its current name is probably of Christian origin and a deformation of the word monastery.

Famous city in Tunisia because it gave the day to the first president of the republic independent of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba, on August 3, 1903.

With the VII ème century, the emirs used the city like fortified town and built there a ribat, which will be increased during centuries. Currently it is the seat of the Islamic museum. Médina built by Aghlabides, was however restored and altered with many recovery. With the XI ème century, after the setting with bag of Hilaliens de Kairouan, the city becomes the religious capital.

Nowadays, the town of Monastir underwent enormous modifications, in particular with fastening in the continent of the island of Sidi El Gadamsi, which made it possible to create two artificial basins for the marina. Thanks to the creation of this artificial harbour, with its splendid beaches and its solid hotel structure, Monastir shelters tourism of luxury today.