Mosque of the Barber, Islamic religious complex in Kairouan, Tunisia
The Mosque of the Barber is a sanctuary in Kairouan comprising several courtyards, a mausoleum, a religious school, and residential quarters arranged around a central prayer area. The structure combines multiple functions in one place, with the mausoleum chamber particularly distinguished by decorated walls and colorful ceramic tiles.
The building was erected in the 17th century under Hammuda Pasha Bey's direction, replacing an earlier 14th-century structure that marked the tomb of Abu Zama'a al-Balawi. This reconstruction demonstrated the saint's enduring importance to Kairouan across multiple centuries.
The site honors Abu Zama'a al-Balawi, a revered spiritual figure whose tomb draws visitors seeking his intercession and blessing. The interior displays colorful glazed tiles and ornate decorations that reflect the sanctuary's importance in the local community's religious life.
The entrance passes through a brick-paved courtyard leading to the mausoleum, so visitors should be prepared for uneven surfaces and steps. Exploring the full complex with its various chambers takes time, and good footwear suits the flooring conditions.
The minaret displays Hispano-Moorish architecture with twin bays framed by ceramic cladding and rises from the northwest corner of the main courtyard. This design blends architectural influences from the western Mediterranean with local craft techniques in a distinctive way.
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