Restoration of Kairouan Medina's Historical Monuments Hampered by Heritage Issues
The restoration of several historical monuments in Kairouan's medina is currently being hindered by heritage-related problems, according to Sayed Alani from the Beit Al-Hikma association, during a field visit. This initiative was carried out in coordination with the Association for the Preservation of the Medina, as well as other associations and civil society actors.
In a statement given to Sabra Fl, Alani specified that the objective of this visit was to assess the condition of several abandoned old houses, as well as certain zaouias and schools that hold symbolic value for Kairouan's heritage. According to Alani, these actions are part of a collective effort to raise public awareness and promote the preservation of the medina, while respecting its architectural specificities.
The official clarified that inheritance difficulties, often fragmented among multiple heirs, are blocking maintenance operations, including the payment of municipal taxes and the cleaning and maintenance of buildings. Furthermore, he revealed that nearly 116 zaouias belonging to the state have not undergone any intervention, except in very rare cases.
A written report will be drafted following this visit and submitted to the regional authorities and concerned institutions, in order to take concrete measures for the preservation of the medina, a historical and cultural symbol of Kairouan.
