Audio Guide of Ez-Zitouna Mosque

Ez-Zitouna Mosque is open to the public from Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., although it closes temporarily during Muslim prayer times. Non-Muslims may visit the outer courtyard and the library, but not the main prayer hall; enter through the main entrance in the center of the Medina of Tunis. For more details, see the official Tunisia tourism website.

Admission to Ez-Zitouna Mosque is free for all visitors, including non-Muslims who wish to explore the courtyard and accessible areas. However, if you hire a guide or join an organized tour, there may be an additional cost of around 10–20 Tunisian dinars. Check for updates on TripAdvisor.

It is recommended to allow at least 1 hour for a basic visit, exploring the courtyard, the Roman columns, and the architecture; if you include the library or a guided tour, it may extend to 1.5–2 hours. This gives you enough time to appreciate its grandeur without rushing. Plan according to your itinerary so you can combine it with the nearby Medina.

Ez-Zitouna Mosque, founded in 732 AD, is one of the oldest Islamic centers in the Arab world and a symbol of Andalusian influence in Tunisia, with more than 160 reused Roman columns in its structure. It was an educational hub for centuries, housing Zitouna University, and represents the fusion of Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean cultures. Its importance lies in its role as the spiritual and cultural heart of Tunisia.

The best time of day is early morning (around 9:00 a.m.), when there are fewer tourists and cooler temperatures; avoid prayer times and midday in summer. As for the best season, spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) are ideal because of the mild weather, although access may be restricted during Ramadan. Check the calendar on the Tunisian tourism portal.

Accessibility is limited due to the steps at the entrance and the uneven courtyard surface, which can be challenging for wheelchairs or visitors with reduced mobility. It is recommended to contact the Medina visitor center in advance at +216 71 342 875 for assistance or alternative routes. For adapted tours, check with specialized local agencies.

Near Ez-Zitouna Mosque, in the heart of the Medina of Tunis (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), you can visit the traditional souks for shopping and handicrafts, Dar Ben Abdallah Palace (now a museum) just a 5-minute walk away, and Victory Tower. Do not miss the Bardo Museum, about 15 minutes away by taxi, which houses impressive Roman mosaics. Use Google Maps to plan your route.

Wear modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) to respect cultural norms, and bring comfortable shoes for walking on the cobblestones. Consider hiring a local guide for detailed stories, and avoid taking photos in sensitive areas without permission. Bring water and sunscreen in summer, and if you are traveling in a group, book in advance; the tourist information phone number is +216 71 341 077.