The Medina of Sousse

The medina of Sousse, like that of Tunis, is classified in the world inheritance of Unesco (inscribed in 1988). One of the distinguishing features is the location of the main mosque which is not in the center of the city. Like the ribat, it was responsible for protecting the artificial dock of the arsenal, which explains its military appearance. The ribat came into being during the reign of the Aghlabid dynasty but, after the construction of the city walls in 859, gradually it lost its military function. While on the floor is a small mosque, the basement is converted into various premises and shops also rmains traces of an olive press.