Kairouan Things to Do Tips by alyf1961 Top 5 Page for this destination

THE CISTERN

The Cistern is in the centre of the courtyard which slopes slightly to allow water to filter into it. Water is important before prayers to cleanse the prayer. There are also cleansing facilities outside the courtyard.

Address: THE GREAT MOSQUE, KAIROUAN

THE SUN DIAL

The sundial which sits in the main courtyard marks the hours of prayer. Prayers are not at a particular time on the clock they are determined by the course of the sun.

Address: THE GREAT MOSQUE, KAIROUAN

THE MIRHAB

The Mirhab Dome marks the position of the mirhab which points in the direction of Mecca.

Address: THE GREAT MOSQUE, KAIROUAN

THE MINARET

The base of the minaret was built between 724 and 728. It is one of the oldest Minarets and it set a pattern for all Minarets in this part of the muslim world. It is 115 foot high and has 129 steps leading to the top.

THE ARCADES

The arcades surround the courtyard, they form long aisles to protect people from the sun. If the Mosque is full people will pray in the courtyard and the aisles.
The pillars of the arcades were taken from carthage where the Roman baths stood.

Address: THE GREAT MOSQUE, KAIROUAN

THE PRAYER HALL

The prayer hall has 17 aisles which are seperated from each other by rows of columns. The floor of the prayer hall is covered with hand made rugs. These rugs are usually made by women and can take up to 1 year to make each rug.

THE GREAT MOSQUE

The Great Mosque is in the centre of the Medina. It is the fourth most important pilgrimage destination iun the Islamic world and one of the oldest and largest places of prayer. According to muslims seven visits here are equvilent to one visit to Mecca.