Zaouia Zakkak
A 17th-century Ottoman architectural gem in Sousse, featuring a unique octagonal minaret and serving as a historical mosque, madrasa, and mausoleum.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour lighting
Zaouia Zakkak
Best Time
Golden hour lighting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 17th-century Ottoman architectural gem in Sousse, featuring a unique octagonal minaret and serving as a historical mosque, madrasa, and mausoleum.
"Admire the beautiful architecture from the outside; a true example of Ottoman architecture."
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this religious site. :pray:
Admire from Outside
Non-Muslims can't enter prayer areas, but the exterior architecture is beautiful. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Octagonal Minaret
Exterior
Admire the unique 17th-century octagonal minaret, a stunning example of Ottoman architecture.
Architectural Details
Exterior
Appreciate the intricate details of the mosque, madrasa, and mausoleum from the outside.
Dome of the Holy Man's Tomb
Exterior
Spot the recognizable large white dome marking the exterior of the holy man's tomb.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Best Time for Photos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this religious site. :pray:
Admire from Outside
Non-Muslims can't enter prayer areas, but the exterior architecture is beautiful. :camerawithflash:
Look for Inscriptions
Check the entrance for inscriptions detailing the benefactor and construction date. :scroll:
Quiet Exploration
Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. :clock_face:
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this religious site. :pray:
Admire from Outside
Non-Muslims can't enter prayer areas, but the exterior architecture is beautiful. :camerawithflash:
Look for Inscriptions
Check the entrance for inscriptions detailing the benefactor and construction date. :scroll:
Quiet Exploration
Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. :clock_face:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Zaouia Zakkak is praised for its unique Ottoman architecture, particularly its 17th-century octagonal minaret. Visitors appreciate the historical significance as a mosque, madrasa, and mausoleum, even though non-Muslims can only admire it from the outside. Some note that the site appears neglected, but its architectural beauty still leaves a positive impression.
"Tucked away in a maze of narrow streets, this mosque with its beautiful 17th-century octagonal minaret is a true example of Ottoman architecture. The complex includes a mosque, a madrasa (school) and a mausoleum. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter, but at least we can admire the beautiful architecture from the outside."
Marina Naumovic
"This monument served several purposes: mausoleum, mosque, and dormitory for theology students of the Great Mosque.
The location of the holy man's tomb is recognizable from the exterior thanks to the large white dome.
An inscription at the entrance to the building indicates the name of the benefactor and the date of the monument's construction."
Mohamed ABASSI
"Neglected, but makes a nice impression"
Anna
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Zaouia Zakkak is located within the medina of Sousse. You'll likely need to navigate the narrow streets on foot. Taxis can get you close to the medina entrance. Some travel programs mention guided tours that include visits to such historical sites within Sousse.
While public transport can get you to Sousse, reaching Zaouia Zakkak itself requires walking through the medina's labyrinthine alleys. It's best to combine it with a walk around the medina.
Driving directly to Zaouia Zakkak is not possible due to its location within the pedestrian-only medina. Parking is available outside the medina walls, and you'll need to walk the rest of the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no mention of an entrance fee for Zaouia Zakkak. However, it's a religious site, and access to prayer areas is restricted to Muslims. You can admire the exterior architecture freely.
Specific opening hours are not widely published, as it's a functioning religious site. It's best to visit during daylight hours. Some tour programs suggest visiting in the morning or late afternoon.
Non-Muslims are generally not permitted to enter the prayer areas or mausoleum of Zaouia Zakkak. However, the beautiful exterior architecture is accessible and worth viewing.
Yes, a modest dress code is essential. Visitors should cover their shoulders and knees out of respect for the religious nature of the site.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography of the exterior architecture is generally permitted. However, always be respectful and avoid taking photos inside prayer areas or of individuals without their consent.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most beautiful light for photographing the octagonal minaret and the building's details. Early mornings can also provide good light with fewer people around.
Focus on capturing the unique octagonal minaret, the intricate facade details, and the white dome of the holy man's tomb. The surrounding narrow streets can also add to the atmosphere of your photos.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Zaouia Zakkak is a significant historical monument dating back to the 17th century, showcasing Ottoman architectural influences. It served multiple purposes, including a mausoleum, mosque, and dormitory for theology students.
The architecture is primarily Ottoman, most notably featuring a distinctive 17th-century octagonal minaret. The complex also includes a mosque, madrasa, and mausoleum.
The site contains the tomb of a holy man, recognizable by the large white dome on the exterior.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🏛️ History Buffs
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Zaouia Zakkak's Architecture
While non-Muslim visitors cannot enter the prayer halls or mausoleum, the exterior provides ample opportunity for appreciation. Look for the inscription at the entrance, which often details the benefactor and the date of construction, offering a direct connection to the monument's past.
For photographers, the interplay of light and shadow on the facade, especially during the golden hours, can create dramatic and beautiful images. The surrounding narrow streets of the medina also contribute to the atmospheric setting, allowing for a more immersive photographic experience.
Understanding the Role of Zaouia Zakkak
Historically, it served as a dormitory for students attending the nearby Great Mosque, indicating a close integration with the city's primary religious institution. This multi-faceted purpose underscores the importance of such complexes in preserving religious traditions and fostering intellectual life in historical Islamic cities. The fact that it was funded by a benefactor, as indicated by inscriptions, also speaks to the community's investment in religious and educational infrastructure.
Despite its current state of neglect, the enduring presence of Zaouia Zakkak serves as a reminder of Sousse's historical depth and its legacy as a center of learning and spirituality. Its unique architectural features, particularly the octagonal minaret, make it a valuable historical and cultural landmark worth preserving and understanding.
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