Originally known as the Ribat Harthama, the ribat was built in AD 796 and is one of the oldest in Africa

It was built as a defensive fortress that combined religious and military functions. Sadly it is now closed for repair.

There are entrances on each of the 4 sides. This is one of the side entrances. The staff inside told me to go away

The main entrance is on the south. This was closed too

Windows on the outer wall. Notice they have a column as part of the decoration

On the north side you can see it is being extensively renovated

It has been under maintenance for ages and judging by the efficiency of these workers, hopefully it can be completed before La Sagrada Família in Barcelona

The Marina of Monastir

The beach, Monastir is also a famous spot of tourists if they do not like to stay in Sousse

From here you could see the Ribat(left) and the grand mosque (right). You could also see the icon of the Ribat - the minaret of Ribat

Having nothing else to do as the Ribat was closed, we decided to look at Habib Bourguiba mausoleum, which is very closed by