Great Mosque of Mahdia

This mosque on the narrow peninsula of Mahdia is a modern reconstruction of the tenth-century original founded when the town served as the first Fatimid capital. Its severe, monumental gateway and broad prayer hall recall the austere power of that dynasty, distinct from the ornamented mosques of later periods. Set close to the sea at the tip of the old town, it stands near the ruins of the ancient harbour and fortifications. The mosque anchors a compact historic quarter that reflects Mahdia's brief but pivotal role in North African history.