A Day in Kairouan
Our stop in Kairouan on the Tunisia Uncovered tour marks a shift in the journey—a moment of religious and cultural immersion after exploring the archaeological wonders of Ancient Carthage, Dougga, and Bulla Regia; enjoying a restful homestay in Le Kef; experiencing the buzz of the capital Tunis; and breathing in the fresh sea air of Sidi Bou Said.
Even upon arrival, the importance of the city is clear, as you are greeted by the historic ramparts of the medina, dating back to the 8th century and enclosing the UNESCO World Heritage Site within—Kairouan’s Old City. Founded in 670 AD, this holy city (considered the fourth holiest in Islam after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem) is home to the Great Mosque, mausoleums, markets, and people whose warmth leaves a lasting impression.
Carpet Shopping
We watch women weave intricate designs in a variety of colours and motifs. The smell of wool hangs heavy in the air as carpets are unfurled for our pleasure while we sip mint tea. Many in our group leave with carefully wrapped keepsakes that will rest under their feet for years to come.
A Good Night’s Rest – Hotel La Kasbah Kairouan
We stroll back across the road to our hotel, La Kasbah Kairouan, to unwind with a hammam and massage, followed by a final stroll through the market. Later, we settle in for another late-night round of tea in the patio before collapsing into bed—ready to rest for another day of exploring.
The Zawiya of Sidi Sahib / Barber Mausoleum
We take time to wander around the Zawiya of Sidi Sahib, also known as the Mosque of the Barber, a religious shrine and complex. Its origins date back to the city’s early history, and its richly decorated panels, tiles, and domes make it one of Kairouan’s architectural highlights.
The Museum of Islamic Arts of Kairouan – Raqqada
This former presidential palace was converted into a cultural and educational centre in 1986. Its galleries showcase manuscripts, coins, and ceramics from the Aghlabid, Fatimid, and Hafsid eras. This visit offered an opportunity to better interpret the deep history of Kairouan.
The Great Mosque
After wrapping ourselves in headscarves, we step inside the Great Mosque of Kairouan, which is one of the largest Islamic monuments in North Africa, and arguably the oldest and most important mosque in the western Islamic world. A model for later mosques across the Maghreb, it features a vast marble-paved courtyard, a large hypostyle prayer hall, and a distinctive square minaret. Our guide Ridha takes us through its many architectural innovations as we marvel at its beauty, history and grandeur.
Lunch at a Local Guesthouse
We stop at a local guesthouse for a beautifully prepared lunch of chicken, couscous, and salad—alongside Tunisia’s ever-present trio of tuna, olives, and harissa. After exploring the ornately decorated home, we cross the road for a surprise…
Family-Run Makroud Making
At a nearby café, we slip through the back to join a makroud-making class. Makrouds—semolina pastries filled with date paste, cinnamon, orange blossom water, and saffron—are pressed, fried, and coated in honey. With some direction, our group creates trays of golden makrouds to share on the coach, and we even leave with a certificate to prove our new skill!
A Wander Through the Streets of Kairouan
We finish the afternoon wandering back through the streets of the old city, where we wind through the white labyrinth of striking doors, locals, graffiti and shops. We visit Ridha’s friend Samer at his workshop, where he shows us his intricate wood carvings and even treats us to an impromptu serenade on an oud he carved himself.
And then onward south to the desert oasis of Tozeur, Tataouine and our Sahara Desert camp.
