Zitouna Mosque
Tunis
Al-Zaytuna Mosque, located in the heart of Tunis's historic medina, is the oldest mosque in the city with origins dating back to the late 7th or early 8th century. Its present architectural form largely stems from a 9th-century reconstruction under the Aghlabid dynasty, featuring many antique columns reused from Carthage. The mosque has been a pivotal center of Islamic education, evolving into the University of Ez-Zitouna, which became Tunisia's most important educational institution from the 13th century onward. Esteemed scholars such as Ibn 'Arafa, al-Maziri, and the poet Aboul-Qacem Echebbi taught there, highlighting its cultural and intellectual significance. The mosque's design shares similarities with the Mosque of Uqba in Kairouan, reflecting regional architectural traditions. Archaeological findings reveal that the mosque was built atop a Byzantine-era building, possibly a Christian basilica dedicated to Saint Olivia, which contributes to its layered historical narrative. The mosque remains a symbol of Tunisian religious heritage and scholarly tradition, attracting visitors interested in Islamic architecture and history.
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Astuce: Visitors should aim to explore the mosque during weekdays when it is less crowded, and consider joining guided tours to appreciate its historical and architectural details fully. Advance booking for tours is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Respectful attire is advised as it remains an active place of worship. Discounts may be available for students and groups. Check the official website or local tourist information centers for updated visiting hours and any special events.
Faits intéressants
- •The mosque incorporates many antique columns reused from the ancient city of Carthage.
- •It developed into the University of Ez-Zitouna, Tunisia's most important Islamic educational institution from the 13th century onward.
- •Archaeological evidence suggests the mosque was built over a Byzantine-era Christian basilica dedicated to Saint Olivia.
- •A legend holds that the mosque's site was once an olive tree sanctuary, giving the mosque its name meaning 'Mosque of the Olive'.
- •The mosque's 9th-century reconstruction was patronized by the Abbasid caliph al-Musta'in Billah and overseen by architect Fath al-Banna'.
- •The mosque's design closely resembles that of the Mosque of Uqba in Kairouan, reflecting Aghlabid architectural style.
Histoire
Al-Zaytuna Mosque was founded in the late 7th or early 8th century, likely by Hasan ibn al-Nu'man around 698 CE, shortly after the Arab conquest of the region.
It was the second mosque established in Ifriqiya after the Mosque of Uqba in Kairouan.
The mosque underwent significant reconstruction in the 9th century under the Aghlabid dynasty, completed around 864–865 CE, which gave it its current architectural form.
Over the centuries, it developed into a major center of Islamic scholarship, eventually becoming the University of Ez-Zitouna.
Archaeological studies have shown that the mosque was built over a Byzantine-era structure, possibly a Christian basilica, indicating the site's long-standing religious significance.
Guide du lieu
Main Prayer Hall9th century
The central prayer hall features rows of antique columns sourced from Carthage, supporting horseshoe arches and a richly decorated mihrab indicating the direction of Mecca.
Courtyard (Sahn)9th century
The mosque's courtyard is an open-air space surrounded by arcades, serving as a gathering place for worshippers and students of the historic university.
University of Ez-ZitounaFrom 13th century onward
Originally part of the mosque complex, the University of Ez-Zitouna became a leading center of Islamic learning in North Africa, producing notable scholars and poets.
Contact
Téléphone: 56 480 544