Tunisia - Kairouan

University Finalists Trip (LIG 1998_2003), Tunisia, April 2003

Sidi Sahbi Mosque, Kairouan

Built by the Muradid Hammuda Pasha Bey and Murad II Bey, Mosque Sidi Sahbi is a catacomb of Sidi Sahab that was built between 1629 and 1692. Also known as the Mosque of the Barber, it is originally a school located inside the walls of Kairouan.

Mosque Sidi Sahbi or the Mosque of the Barber houses a tomb of Abu Zama el-Balaui, a companion of Prophet Mohammed. This imam always carried three hairs of Prophet's beard with him. He always visits this worship place to offer prayers.

Mosque Sidi Sahbi is an immense portion of Muslim and Arabic art. Inside the mosque, all the corridors and courtyards are fully covered by beautiful decorative tiles while the doors are nicely ornated. The tomb of Abu Zama el-Balaui has beautiful tiled decoration and also contains a dome with stucco embellishment. They can have a glimpse of the mosque interior décor and design from outside only.