Kairouan
Many Muslims live in this religious city and Sunites consider this place to be the fourth holy city of Islam. Muslims make pilgrimages to this holy city. Kairouan was previously the capital of Tunisia.
In 2009, the city was declared the Islamic cultural capital of the world.
History of Kairouan
The Great Mosque of Kairouan, also known as the Mosque of Uqba, is a significant Islamic architectural and historical site located in the city of Kairouan, Tunisia. The mosque is considered one of the oldest and most important Islamic religious buildings in North Africa. It was built in the 8th century by the Arab general Uqba ibn Nafi and was expanded over the centuries by various rulers.
The mosque's prayer hall is covered by a series of horseshoe arches supported by columns of different sizes and shapes. The mosque's minaret is also noteworthy, it is the oldest minaret in Africa and has a unique square shape.
The mosque's decoration is also rich with geometric patterns, calligraphy and colorful mosaics, it is a great example of the Islamic art and architecture of the time it was built.
The mosque is considered as a masterpiece of Islamic art and architecture, and it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of the most visited places in Tunisia.
Medina Kairouan
The medina of Kairouan is one of the best preserved medinas in Tunisia. This old city center exudes a very special atmosphere as in a cinematic environment.
This medina with a city wall of more than three kilometers is home to very characteristic alleys.
The architecture is very special and if you are a lover of old doors then you are in the right place in Kairouan.
Architecture Kairouan
The architecture of the Medina in Kairouan is characterized by its traditional Islamic style, featuring intricate geometric patterns and ornamentation. The city's Great Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Uqba, is a notable example of this style, with its horseshoe arches, marble columns, and ornate tilework. Other notable architectural features of the Medina include the Aghlabid Basilica, the Bou Inania Madrasa, and the Dar Batha Museum, which were all built during the Islamic Golden Age. Overall, the Medina in Kairouan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered a valuable example of Islamic architecture and urban planning
Pilgrimage site
Kairouan is a place where you can still fully immerse yourself in the Arab culture.
During the domination of the French, this old city was left relatively untouched.
The University of Kairouan is an important center for the study of the Qur'an and is therefore the religious center of Tunisia.
Kairouan is also a popular pilgrimage destination. Only Mecca and Medina attract more Muslim visitors.
