Université Ez-Zitouna

About

Université Ez-Zitouna, one of the oldest continuously operating universities in the world, offers a unique academic journey rooted in Islamic sciences and Arabic language studies. It is primarily known for its profound contributions to Islamic theology, Sharia law, and classical Arabic literature, serving as a beacon of learning for centuries. While its core curriculum is delivered in Arabic, prospective international students interested in deep dives into Islamic civilization and traditional scholarship will find its programs invaluable. The university does not typically feature dedicated English-taught programs or extensive international student support offices in the modern Western sense, but it welcomes students keen on immersing themselves in its rich academic heritage. Its distinctive characteristic is its unparalleled historical legacy, tracing its origins back to the 8th century, making it a living testament to centuries of intellectual tradition.

Background

Ez-Zitouna University (Arabic: جامعة الزيتونة, romanized: Jāmi‘a al-Zaytūna, French: Université Ez-Zitouna) is a medieval public university in Tunis, Tunisia. The university originated in the Al-Zaytuna Mosque, founded at the end of the 7th or in the early 8th century, which developed into a major Islamic centre of learning in North Africa. It consists of the Oldest and Higher Institute of Theology and the Higher Institute of Islamic Civilisation in Tunis and a research institution, the Centre of Islamic Studies, in Kairouan.

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