蘇斯清真寺 Sousse Mosque: Ribat for religious wars |
When the ribat was started to be erected in 821 by the
Aghlabid rulers, it was principally a fortress against the Christians on
Sicily. The word 'ribat'
comes from the same root as 'marabout', the North African name for holy
men. Ribats of these times were generally connected to a very
conservative and often ascetic practice of Islam.Today, the ribat
stands right on the Place Farhat Hached, and seems to be lost. What once
was impressive, is inundated by the hustle of the modern town. |
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Around the courtyard, cells for the soldiers are found on
3 sides. The 4th side, the one closest to the entrance, was the prayer
hall. However primitive it might appear, it is generally considered to
be the oldest mosque of North Africa.From the top of the nador,
the watch tower, you will have great views over Sousse |