Kasbah of Sfax, Medieval fortress and art museum in Sfax, Tunisia
The Kasbah of Sfax is a medieval fortress featuring thick stone walls, towers, and narrow winding passages typical of North African defensive construction. Inside, art galleries and exhibition spaces display regional artifacts alongside contemporary works.
The fortress was built in the 9th century by the Aghlabids as a coastal watchtower. Over time it evolved from a military outpost into an administrative center and later served as a military barracks.
The galleries inside display works by regional and contemporary Tunisian artists. Visitors can see how local creators express their perspectives through different artistic approaches and materials.
The site is open daily and visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the narrow passages and stairs. Indoor lighting is limited in some areas, so bringing a flashlight or using your phone's light can be helpful.
Hidden beneath the fortress are underground chambers that once served as emergency prayer spaces during periods of conflict. These concealed spaces reveal how inhabitants adapted their daily practices to the site's defensive needs.
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