Tunisia: Kairouan Medina

The medina of Kairouan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the historic heart of the city. Enclosed by a 3.5-km circuit of walls and towers and gates, this maze-like quarter dates back to the city’s founding in 670 AD. Key gates include Bab Tunis (Tunis Gate), Bab al-Khukha, and Bab Jalladine, which serve as main entry points. The walls, made of adobe and stone, are punctuated by defensive towers. The medina’s narrow, winding streets form a labyrinth, designed for shade and defense. Residential areas are organized into quarters, often centered around a mosque, including landmarks like the Mosque of the Three Gates from 866 CE and the Mausoleum of Sidi Sahab 17th century. The medina’s markets are a highlight, with specialized souks for carpets, leather, spices, and metalwork. Souk El-Blaghija (shoe market) and Souk El-Attarine (perfume market) are particularly famous.