Monastir, Monastir, Sahel, Tunisia
Fortress / Ribat · Abbasid · 8th Century
The Ribat of Monastir is an Islamic defensive structure located in Monastir, Tunisia. It is the oldest ribat built by the Arab conquerors during the Muslim conquest of the Maghreb. Founded in 796 by the Abbasid leader Harthama ibn A'yan, it served as a defense against Byzantine fleets. It combines the functions of a fortress and a monastery.
Construction: 796 – 796
Founder: Harthama ibn A'yan
Significance: The oldest and most important ribat (fortress-monastery) in the Maghreb.
- 796: Founded
Architectural styles: Islamic Military
Materials: Stone
- Nador Tower: Watchtower offering panoramic views.
- Prayer Hall: Small mosque within the fortress.
- Cells: Monastic cells for warrior-monks.
Opening hours: 08:00 - 19:00 (summer) · 08:00 - 17:30 (winter) – Museum of Islamic Art located inside.
- General: €3.00
Accessibility: Partial.
Official site: http://patrimoinedetunisie.com.tn
Address: Route de la Corniche, Monastir, Tunisia
Coordinates: 35.7764, 10.8331