Colonial Zaytuna: The Making of a Minaret in French-Occupied Tunisia

The construction of Zaytuna Mosque's minaret during French colonial rule in Tunisia reflects a complex interplay between colonial aspirations and architectural revival. This 1892 project, which replaced a hazardous Ottoman-era structure with an Almohad-style replica, paralleled the rise of French neighborhoods and Saint Vincent de Paul Cathedral. The study reveals how the minaret's design symbolized both a break from Ottoman heritage and a reappropriation of North African architectural styles under colonial influence. By analyzing archival records and urban development patterns, the research sheds light on the political motivations behind this monumental endeavor and its lasting impact on Tunisian cityscape.

Lamine, S. (2021). Colonial Zaytuna: The Making of a Minaret in French-Occupied Tunisia. Muqarnas Online, 38(1), 185–221. https://doi.org/10.1163/22118993-00381p07