Kairouan, the fourth holy city of Islam

The most important Muslim city in Africa and the fourth in the world after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem. For believers, seven trips to Kairouan amount to a visit to Mecca.

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Kairouan is located 57 kilometres west of Sousse and is one of the most emblematic cities in the heart of Tunisia. It was founded in the year 671 by Okba Ibn Nafaa, an Arab warrior and companion of the Prophet Muhammad.

Originally established as a strategic military camp, it later became the great spiritual, cultural and religious centre of Islam in the Maghreb.

Its monuments clearly reflect the purity and elegance of Islamic architecture, while its impressive walls, built in 1052, still define the historical character of the city.

Among the main places of interest are the Great Mosque, dating from the 9th century (the oldest in Africa), and the Mausoleum of Sidi Sahbi. According to legend, Sidi Sahbi was a saint who kept three hairs from the beard of the Prophet Muhammad, which earned him the nickname “the Barber”.

In Tunisia, it is not allowed to enter the prayer hall. You can see it from the outside. That is why, on some tours that arrive in the afternoon, the visit consists of a panoramic view.

Kairouan is also renowned for its traditional carpet production.

World Heritage in 1988.

Horary Great Mosque:

From 16/09 to 31/03: 08.00 - 14.00
From 01/04 to 15/09: 07.30 - 14.00

Visit cost: 20 Dinars.

The best craftsmanship of Kairouan

The carpets of Kairouan are part of one of the oldest and most respected craft traditions in Tunisia. Handwoven using techniques passed down from generation to generation, each piece is the result of many hours of meticulous work, patience and ancestral know-how.

Their geometric patterns, deep colours and strong texture reflect a city where art is part of everyday life. They are not simply rugs, but true works of craftsmanship that tell stories through their knots and designs.

Each Kairouan carpet also comes with a seal of guarantee, certifying its origin, quality and handmade production. For this reason, those who discover them rarely leave empty-handed.

More than just a souvenir, taking home a Kairouan carpet means taking with you a piece of history, tradition and the soul of the Maghreb.