Mosque of the Seven Sleepers

The Mosque of the Seven Sleepers is a white stone sanctuary set on high ground in the Tataouine region. It overlooks traditional Berber villages and desert landscapes while containing seven large tombs within its grounds.

This mosque emerged during the early Islamic period when the region became one of North Africa's first areas to adopt Islam. Its construction reflects how local beliefs and Islamic practices connected during that era.

The site connects to the Quranic story of seven young men said to have slept in a cave for centuries. This narrative shapes how residents today think about and experience the place.

This site is best reached on foot from the nearby village of Chenini and is often included in tours organized from Tataouine. Ask local guides about access routes and current conditions before visiting.

The seven tombs at this site are remarkably long and far exceed typical human dimensions. Local accounts suggest this unusual size explains how bodies could have grown during their extended sleep.