Medina of Sousse in Tunisia

Facts and Data

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1988
Size of heritage: 32 ha
- Buffer zone: 61 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 10,639°
Latitude: 35,828°

Summary

Sousse was an important commercial and military port during the Aghlabid period (800–909) and is a typical example of a town dating from the first centuries of Islam. With its kasbah, ramparts, medina (with the Great Mosque), Bu Ftata Mosque and typical ribat (both a fort and a religious building), Sousse was part of a coastal defence system.

Location on Map

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Medina of Sousse: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tunisia

The Medina of Sousse, located in the Gouvernorat de Sousse in Tunisia, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. This ancient walled city is a testament to the diverse influences that have shaped Tunisia over the centuries.

History

The history of the Medina of Sousse dates back to the 9th century when it was established as a military stronghold by the Aghlabid dynasty. Over the years, it grew into a bustling commercial center and an important port city in the Mediterranean. The strategic location of Sousse made it a coveted prize for various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Vandals, and Byzantines.

During the 9th and 10th centuries, the Medina of Sousse flourished under the rule of the Aghlabids and later the Fatimids. It became a center of Islamic learning and a hub for trade and commerce. The city's prosperity attracted merchants from across the Mediterranean, resulting in a vibrant and cosmopolitan society.

However, the Medina of Sousse faced numerous challenges throughout its history. It was repeatedly attacked and occupied by different powers, including the Normans, Spanish, and Ottomans. These invasions left their mark on the city's architecture and culture, creating a unique blend of Islamic, European, and North African influences.

Current State

Today, the Medina of Sousse stands as a well-preserved example of a medieval Islamic city. Its narrow winding streets, traditional houses, and historic monuments offer visitors a glimpse into the past. The medina is surrounded by imposing walls that were built during the Aghlabid period and later reinforced by subsequent rulers.

One of the most iconic landmarks within the Medina of Sousse is the Great Mosque, also known as the Mosque of Uqba. This grand mosque, founded in the 9th century, showcases the architectural prowess of the Aghlabids and is considered one of the finest examples of Islamic art and design in Tunisia.

Another notable feature of the medina is the Ribat, a fortified monastery that served as a defensive structure and a center for religious activities. The Ribat of Sousse offers panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea, providing a glimpse into the strategic importance of the region.

The Medina of Sousse is not just a historical site but also a living community. It is home to a vibrant local population that continues to preserve its cultural traditions and way of life. The medina's narrow streets are lined with traditional shops, cafes, and artisan workshops, where visitors can experience the authentic atmosphere of a bustling North African market.

Address
Distance: 1,9 mi
BD 14 Janvier 2011
4031 Sousse
Tunisia

Time Information

Checkout: - Checkin:
Reception
Weekday: 0:00 - 0:00
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

SNCFT GT 560 And GT 569 At Sousse Station

Published: March 25, 2015
Length: 22:37 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: SNCFT / Tunisian railways

SNCFT 040-GT-560 22-5/74 Monastir to Tunis 25/03/2015 ---- 040-GT-569 13-5/72 Tozeur to Tunis 25/03/2015 --- 00:00 Arriving of GT 560 from Monastir (22-5/74) 01:04 GT 560 manoeuvre 02:47 ...

Lapse time Sousse Centre Ville (beb b7ar) by mmgizzle

Published: February 28, 2013
Length: 06:01 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: mmgizzle MMG

Lapse time Sousse Centre ville by mmgizzle prise le 26/02/2013. Instagram : mmgizzle.

SOUSSE MEDINA TUNISIE /TUNISIA SUSAH MEDINA

Published: January 10, 2014
Length: 07:07 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: sami baa

The medina of Sousse is a Tunisian medina, the historic TOWN of Sousse, listed since 1988 as World Heritage UNESCO1 2. Sousse is considered a typical example of cities of the first centuries...

IAOM & La Rose Blanche - Dîner Gala à Sousse Nov 2013 by B-Event

Published: December 09, 2013
Length: 13:50 min
Rating: 0 of 5
Author: BEVENT TN.

3 shows, 600 convives, une soirée mémorable!

Moskee Sousse begint

Published: May 28, 2007
Length: 32:08 min
Rating: 3 of 5
Author: Tom Stoute

Het plein voor de Moskee van Sousse.

Tunesien Souse Einkaufsstrasse Hafen Fotograf Hubert fella

Published: March 07, 2009
Length: 28:04 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Reisebüro Fella

Tunesien Souse Einkaufsstrasse Hafen Fotograf Hubert fella: Tunesien im Überblick und Sousse im Besonderen, mit vielen Informationen und Bildern aus der dreitausendjährigen Geschichte dieses...

Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners.

Near airports

Monastir Habib Bourguiba International Airport
Medium airport - 8 mi (14 km)

Tunis Carthage International Airport
Large airport - 74 mi (120 km)

Sfax Thyna International Airport
Medium airport - 77 mi (124 km)

Pantelleria Airport
Medium airport - 101 mi (163 km)

Lampedusa Airport
Medium airport - 113 mi (183 km)

Tabarka 7 Novembre Airport
Medium airport - 126 mi (204 km)

Djerba Zarzis International Airport
Medium airport - 135 mi (218 km)

Gabès Matmata International Airport
Medium airport - 138 mi (223 km)

Palermo / Punta Raisi Airport
Large airport - 211 mi (340 km)

Luqa Airport
Large airport - 215 mi (347 km)