If you are travelling to Tunisia for religion and culture, don’t miss the Kairouan great Mosque, which is the oldest Mosque in North Africa. The trip is doable as a day trip from most tourist resorts including Hammamet, Sousse and Monastir. Combine it with a visit to the Zaouia of Sidi Sahab to experience beautiful Islamic geometric mosaics and tomb of a close friend of the Prophet Mohammad (Peace be upon him).
Tourists are allowed inside the Mosque courtyard. However, non Muslims should not enter the main Mosque as prayer will be taking place and should not be photographed or disturbed. From the corner near the minaret you can have an excellent view of both domes of the main Mosque above).
Now, look carefully at the pillars supporting the Mosque structure — they come from ancient Roman sites. There are 9 gates (babs) around it’s parimeter that exceeds 400 metres. Originally founded in 670, the Mosque has been rebuilt several times throughout history. The current version includes a dome that was added in the 13th century.
