Tunisia is a predominantly Sunni Muslim country, but it has a rich and longstanding history of religious diversity. Alongside the Sunni majority, the country is home to various Muslim traditions, as well as Christian, Jewish, and other belief communities.
This diversity is reflected in the religious landscape, with churches, mosques, synagogues, and other places of worship found across the country. For example, the Jewish community, present since ancient times, continues to be an important part of Tunisia’s heritage, most notably represented by the El Ghriba Synagogue on Djerba Island, one of the oldest synagogues in the world and a key pilgrimage site.
The films below raise important questions. Here are a few to consider as you explore diversity in Tunisia:
- Do you think these films fully represent the religious diversity within the country?
- Do these films in any manner challenge your conception of Tunisia’s cultural identity?
Pilgrims in Tunis – documentary on the religious diversity in Tunisia.
Pilgrims in Djerba – documentary on the religious diversity in Tunisia.
Interfaith excursion in Tunisia
Despite living side by side for centuries, many Tunisians have limited knowledge of other religious traditions. In response, the Attalaki organization organized an interfaith excursion in 2021 for young people in Tunis, offering visits to a synagogue, a church, and a mosque, and fostering dialogue with representatives of each community.
Video Story
In this video story you will meet young people in Tunis visiting a church, a synagogue and a mosque.
Course: Religious Diversity & Dialogue (English & French)
Promoting dialogue and challenging stereotypes on religious ground through digital tools.
This online course explores religious diversity and the conditions for coexistence, with a particular emphasis on Tunisia, while drawing comparisons with other countries in Southeast Asia and the Middle East.
Additional Resources
Explore the website of our Tunisian partner Attalaki for more information on Tunisia and its religious diversity, or browse our For Educators page for tips and resources on teaching.
Related Resources
Find digital tools produced in cooperation with partners and researchers from different regions.
