Home / Islamic Landmarks around the World / Egypt & North Africa / Great Mosque of Kairouan
Egypt & North Africa
Great Mosque of Kairouan
Kairouan, Tunisia
The third holiest site of the Muslim West, whose Roman columns and minaret document the transfer of Arab architecture to the Maghreb. Its minaret is among the oldest surviving in the Islamic world.
Story & history
The Aghlabids rebuilt it in the 3rd century AH, making it the model of Western Islamic architecture, and its brick minaret is the oldest standing in North Africa.
Getting there
Pin the site on the map or head straight there with your maps app; opening hours and access vary by season.
Quick facts
- A foundation of Maghrebi architecture
- A three-tier minaret
- Over 400 Roman columns
Visiting tip
Aim for late afternoon as the sun gilds the building.