| Duration: | 8 Hour(s) - 0 Minute(s) |
| Tour Category: | Culture Tours |
From Antiquity to the Islamic Conquests, Discover during this Tour the Incredible History of Tunisia
Discover the beauty and history of Kairouan and Sbeitla with a day tour that takes you to some of the most fascinating sites in Tunisia.
Start your journey by departing to Kairouan, a fascinating city that is one of Islam's holy cities and was the first capital of the Maghreb. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kairouan conceals several marvels, including the Great Mosque. Non-Muslims are allowed to enter the courtyard and observe the prayer hall, a majestic forest of arches and ancient columns. Visitors can also climb the minaret, inspired by the lighthouse of Alexandria. You will be in awe of the power and simplicity of this 9th-century architecture.
Another great monument of Kairouan is the graceful Zaouïa Sidi Saheb, also known as the "Mosque of the Barber." The large patios are decorated with brightly colored tiles. Outside of the city, don't miss the great museum of Raqqada, where you can see ceramics with metallic reflections, gold coins, and pages of the Koran dating back to the first centuries of the city's history.
Discover the Aghlabid Basin, considered the largest water works in the Muslim world, which was built in the 9th century and earned Kairouan the name "City of tanks." And it is impossible to forget the numerous workshops where the most famous knotted pile carpets in Tunisia are made.
Next, visit Sbeitla, a small town in the central west region of Tunisia known for its remarkable Roman site and capital. The Capitol is made up of not one but three temples, dedicated to Minerva, Jupiter, and Juno, the gods who protected Rome. The huge Basilica of Vitalis has a stunning basin for baptisms covered in mosaics. In the countryside, the El Gousset archways are all that remains of a large church, 33 meters long, reminding us that Tunisia was once a key stronghold for Christians in the West.
After the visit, return to your place of residence having experienced the history, culture, and stunning natural beauty of the Kairouan-Sbeitla region.
