Kairouan is the capital of Kairouan Governorate in Tunisia. Around 670  the city was founded by the Umayyads. Kairouan has a vibrant atmosphere. It is known for its historical importance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is packed with sightseeing opportunities and things to do. It contains some of the country’s best examples of Islamic architecture, from grand mosques and tombs with ornate decoration to the medina back alleys lined with candy-colored houses. This city is also a major shopping destination and is famous for the quality of its carpets. 

Here are the Best Tourist Attractions in Kairouan

1. Kairouan Medina

 

 

Kairouan Medina is the best preserved in Tunisia. This place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historical and cultural significance. The medina is surrounded by a 3.5-kilometer-long circuit of brick walls reinforced by numerous towers built by the Husseinites in the early 18th century. Visitors can explore this place through the map. They can see the narrow roads lined with colorful, paint-peeling. One can spend hours here just soaking up the old town’s beautiful architecture.

2. Aghlabid Basins

 

Aghlabid Basins is located in the historic city of Kairouan, Tunisia. This place is also known as Bassin des Aghlabides. It is considered one of the top attractions in the region. Aghlabid Basins was built in the 9th century. The basins served as the city’s main source of water during the Aghlabid dynasty. It consists of many large water reservoirs spread across an area of about 14 hectares. However, the purpose of these basins was ingeniously designed to collect and store rainwater, allowing the city to have a continuous water supply throughout the year. Beautiful gardens surround the basins, adding to the serene ambiance of the place.

3. Great Mosque

 

The Great Mosque is also known as the Mosque of Uqba. It is one of the most significant attractions in Kairouan, Tunisia. The Great Mosque stands in the northeast corner of the medina. This is considered one of the oldest and most important Islamic sites in North Africa. It was originally built by Uqba ibn Nafi, the Arab commander who founded Kairouan in 672 CE. This place holds great historical and architectural importance. The Great Mosque is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The mosque has undergone several expansions and renovations over the centuries.

4. Zaouia of Sidi Abed el Ghariani

 

Zaouia of Sidi Amor Abada is one of the top attractions in Kairouan, Tunisia. It is a historic site that holds great significance for both locals and tourists because of its religious and cultural importance. Besides its religious importance, the zaouia is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate tilework. Zaouia’s main building features a stunning courtyard adorned with colorful tiles and intricate calligraphy. This place’s atmosphere and sense of serenity make it peaceful for contemplation and reflection. Visitors can explore the interior of the mausoleum. The walls are decorated with traditional green and white tiles, evoking a sense of reverence and tranquility. Zaouia of Sidi Amor Abada’s historical and cultural significance, with its stunning architecture, makes it a top attraction for tourists seeking a deeper understanding of Tunisia’s rich Islamic heritage.

5. El Jem

 

EI Jem is an oval amphitheater in the modern-day city of El Djem, Tunisia. Since 1979 is listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It is a historic attraction built during the 2nd century when Thysdrus was thriving and prosperous. Thanks to being a major olive-growing center for the Roman Empire. EI Jem amphitheater is the fourth biggest in the world. It has preserved sections of the seating tiers rising to 40 meters. This place is one of the most impressive Roman-era monuments still standing.

6. Sousse Archaeological Museum

 

Sousse Museum is an archaeological museum in Sousse, Sousse Governorate, Tunisia. It was established in 1951. This excellent museum contains the second-largest collection of mosaics in the world and the largest collection of antiquities in the country. Sousse Archaeological Museum’s main exhibits herald from the Punic, Roman, and early Christian periods. Make sure to explore the Museum Rooms. Visitors can see Room 3, with its sublime mosaics including the Triumph of Bacchus and Apollo and the Muses. Room 2’s with Medusa mosaic and the Seasons and Months mosaic in Room 9 was unearthed in El Jem.