Kairouan, the spiritual capital of Tunisia: 1975

People often refer to Kairouan as the “spiritual capital of Tunisia” because of its religious heritage, strategic location, and profound cultural influence. Additionally, it is one of the most significant cities in Islamic history. Situated in the central part of Tunisia, approximately 150 kilometers south of Tunis, Kairouan is a city that has stood the test of time as a religious and cultural center throughout its history.

Geography and Climate

Kairouan experiences a semi-arid climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild winters. Moreover, its central location in Tunisia places it slightly inland, where the desert influences are more apparent than in coastal cities. Despite this, the city benefits from mild winters, and its location has historically made it an important stop for trade routes across North Africa.

Ancient History

The Arab general Uqba ibn Nafi founded Kairouan in the year 50 AH/670 AD during the Islamic conquests. The city quickly became one of the most important cities in the early Islamic world. As the capital of the Aghlabid dynasty in the 9th century, Kairouan emerged as a religious, cultural, and intellectual hub, not only for Tunisia but for the entire Maghreb region. It became a destination for scholars and a center of Islamic learning. Kairouan’s role in the spread of Islam in North Africa cemented its reputation as the “fourth holiest city in Islam” after Mecca, Medina, and Jerusalem.

Kairouan in the Islamic Era

Kairouan’s prominence in the Islamic era cannot be overstated. During the Aghlabid period, the city was known for its scholarly contributions, particularly in Islamic jurisprudence and theology. Arab builders constructed the Great Mosque of Kairouan in 670 AD and later expanded it, making it a symbol of this era. The mosque, with its majestic minaret and large courtyard, became the prototype for many Islamic mosques worldwide. Even after that, the city continued to thrive as a religious center throughout the Fatimid and Zirid periods. 

Modern History

Although Kairouan lost its political significance after the capital moved to Tunis, it retained its religious importance. In modern times, especially during the French occupation (1881–1956), Kairouan continued to be a place of pilgrimage and a center of Islamic scholarship. After Tunisian independence in 1956, Kairouan maintained its status as a spiritual city. It became an important symbol of national identity, deeply tied to Tunisia’s Islamic roots.

Notable Landmarks

Kairouan is home to several iconic landmarks that highlight its historical and religious significance:

• The Great Mosque of Kairouan (Mosque of Uqba): This mosque is one of the oldest in the Islamic world.  Indeed, it dates back to the founding of the city in the 7th century, which is the first century of Islam. It stands as a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, with its towering minaret, vast prayer hall, and large courtyard. Pilgrims and scholars have visited the mosque for centuries, making it a major religious site.
• The Aghlabid Basins: Engineers of the Aghlabid dynasty built these large water reservoirs in the 9th century, showcasing their engineering skills. The objective was to provide the city with a reliable water supply, a vital resource in this arid region.
• The Mosque of the Three Doors: This small mosque, built in 866 AD, is famous for its ornate façade, which features intricate Kufic inscriptions. Notably, it is one of the few surviving examples of early Islamic architecture in Kairouan.
• The Mausoleum of Sidi Sahbi: This religious complex houses the tomb of one of the Prophet Muhammad’s companions, Abou Zamaa el-Balaoui . It is a site of great reverence for visitors, combining a mosque, courtyard, and a religious school (madrasa).

Economy and Social Characteristics

While Kairouan is primarily known for its religious and cultural significance, its economy also benefits from agriculture, artisanal crafts, and tourism. The region is known for the production of olive oil and grains, as well as for its rich artisanal traditions, particularly in carpet weaving and leatherwork. The Kairouan carpet, famous for its intricate designs and high quality, remains one of the most sought-after products in Tunisia.

Tourism plays a crucial role in the city’s economy, as Kairouan attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire its historical sites and participate in religious pilgrimages. UNESCO’s designation of Kairouan as a World Heritage site has bolstered its tourism industry, preserving its architectural treasures and ensuring global recognition of its cultural heritage.

Notable Personalities

Kairouan has been home to several influential figures throughout its history, particularly in the fields of Islamic scholarship and science. One of the most notable personalities is Sahnun ibn Sa’id, a renowned Maliki jurist who played a pivotal role in the spread of the Maliki school of thought in North Africa. Sahnun was instrumental in compiling the “Al-Mudawwana,” a foundational text in Maliki jurisprudence, which significantly influenced Islamic law in the Maghreb.

Another prominent figure from Kairouan is Ibn Sharaf al-Kairouani, a famous poet and scholar of the 11th century. His literary works contributed to the richness of Arabic literature, and his influence was felt across the Islamic world. Additionally, Abu Imran al-Fasi, a great Islamic scholar originally from Fez in Morocco, then settled in Kairouan, where he taught and wrote books until he died. He was known for his teachings and helped spread the Maliki school throughout the Maghreb and Andalusia.

A prominent female figure from Kairouan is Fatima al-Fihriya, the founder of the al-Qarawiyyin Mosque in 857–859 CE in Fez, Morocco. Fatima was born around 800 CE in Kairouan and moved with her father to Fez during the Idrissi Era. She started the construction of the mosque after the death of her father, who left her a large fortune. Scholars transformed the Qarawiyyin Mosque into a teaching institution, which today remains the oldest continuously operating university in the world. 

In more recent times, Kairouan has produced many political leaders, writers, and artists who have contributed significantly to Tunisia’s cultural and political landscape.

Conclusion

Kairouan is a city where history and religion intertwine, offering a unique glimpse into the early Islamic world. Its architecture, culture, and spiritual importance make it a city unlike any other in Tunisia. The landmarks of Kairouan stand as testaments to its past, preserving its legacy as a center of Islamic scholarship and spiritual devotion.

The stamp depicted here captures the city’s rich heritage, showcasing its timeless beauty and significance in Tunisia’s history. This stamp is part of a set of six stamps issued in 1975 to commemorate the Carthage International Festival of Popular Arts.

Catalogue Reference: Yvert & Tellier 810, 1975