"The Holy City" Kairouan by Andrew_W_K

Kairouan Travel Guide: 132 reviews and 457 photos

The Grand Mosque

Tunisians are quick to tell you that Kairouan is the fourth most holy place in the Muslim world after Mecca, Medina and Jeruselem it is also the holiest muslim city in Africa. Kairouan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due mainly to the Grand Mosque and the Medina. The mosque dates back to the 9th century and conatins some 400 columns taken from the ruins of Carthage. The mosque is very impressive in it's size and situation and is worthy of a visit if you in the area.

Mausoleum of Abous El Am Belaoui

The mausoleum of Abous El Am Belaoui

Also known as "the Barber" because of the 3 locks of hair from the prophet Mohammed he carried with him, Abous El Am Belaoui, is buried in a 17th century mausoleum ornately tiled and sumptuously decorated. The buildings also house a school of the Koran and is place of holy learning.

Palace of the Bey

Inside the palace of the Bey

Just inside the Medina is the restored palace of the Bey which is now a government run museum and carpet shop. The restored rooms are magnificent and there are weavers present making Tunisian rugs. The carpets are shown as is the custom in Tunisia but there is no hard sell as in some of the Souks.

Last visit to Kairouan: Dec 2008
Intro Updated Dec 25, 2008
Add to Trip Planner (?)
Report Abuse

Comments (2)

Reply
- Report abuse
hunterV Aug 5, 2009 at 12:21 PM

Wow, it looks very impressive indeed! Thanks for enlightening me upon the subject of their Holy City....
Reply
- Report abuse
Tuna_ank Dec 25, 2008 at 1:43 PM

Keh keh. I am the first visitor of this page. :-))