Ribat of Monastir
The oldest ribat of the Maghreb, right on the seafront
The Ribat of Monastir was founded in 796 by the Abbasid governor Harthama ibn A'yan and is considered the oldest ribat in the Maghreb. Built to defend the coast and house religious warriors, it was enlarged many times, which explains its maze of courtyards, walls and towers. Visitors can walk the ramparts, climb the tall watchtower for views over the marina, the Bourguiba Mausoleum and the sea, and see a small museum of Islamic art. Its well-preserved medieval look has made it a film location, notably for Monty Python's Life of Brian.
Highlights
- Watchtower with sea views
- Ramparts and inner courtyards
- Museum of Islamic art
- Film location of Life of Brian
Best months to visit
Location
Nearby
Bourguiba Mausoleum
Gilded-dome tomb of Tunisia's first president
≈ 1 h on sitePrice on request
UNESCOSousse Medina & Ribat
Aghlabid fortress-monastery and mosque inside intact city walls
≈ 3 h on sitePrice on request
Port El Kantaoui
Whitewashed marina resort with golf, beaches and boat trips
≈ 3 h on sitePrice on request