Zawiyas and Urban Organization in the Medina of Tunis: A Heritage-Oriented Urban Reading from the Hafsid Period to Contemporary Reuse

Zawiyas, Sufi lodges in the Medina of Tunis, played a pivotal role in structuring urban, social, and spiritual landscapes from the Hafsid dynasty (13th–16th centuries) to contemporary times. These institutions were not merely religious spaces but acted as catalysts for neighborhood organization, brokerage between rulers and communities, education, charity, and spiritual governance. Their strategic positioning near gate-markets, cemeteries, and key neighborhoods underscored their deep integration into civic life. The study traces the modern patrimonialization process, highlighting tensions between spiritual authenticity, community custodianship, and cultural tourism. Comparative analysis with cities like Fès and Tlemcen reveals regional variations in heritage governance that influence conservation strategies. Zawiyas exemplify a continuity between spirituality and city-making, offering critical lessons for sustainable urban policy in North African medinas. This interdisciplinary research advances understanding of Islamic urbanism, heritage governance, and cultural resilience.

Chebbi, B. (2025). Zawiyas and Urban Organization in the Medina of Tunis: A Heritage-Oriented Urban Reading from the Hafsid Period to Contemporary Reuse. Zenodo. https://doi.org/10.5281/ZENODO.20379853