People Around the Shrines

In the Tunisian city of Monastir, nearly 29 shrines house the tombs of revered men and some sacred women. Each tomb tells a remarkable story, demonstrating the abundance of kindness and generosity that made these individuals recognized as the people of God. Although shrines are not unique to Monastir, this city houses more than any other. For over 1000 years, there has been a belief that the gate of paradise is in Monastir. Many men of God have desired to be buried here, close to the shore, where most shrines can be found. Within Sufi philosophy, the gate symbolizes an individual who knows the correct lifestyle to enter heaven on the day of judgment.

Shrines are important spiritual touchpoints during various life events, such as circumcisions, weddings, or births. During these events, a lamb may be sacrificed at the shrine. Money is donated to charity, and ceremonies are often celebrated with music and dance.

In addition to their spiritual significance, shrines serve as inns for impoverished individuals visiting from afar or merely passing through the city. These visitors are provided with a simple mattress for sleep. They may even receive a meal sponsored by the shrine’s charity.
Typically, a shrine is a simple structure with multiple rooms, a basic kitchen, a toilet, and a bathing area. One of these rooms houses the tomb of the holy person, marked by a tall box often decorated with a piece of green or red cloth and a Quran. You may find a kaftan on the walls, symbolizing the holy person’s clothing, along with items that characterize their sacredness, flags, and Quranic verses surrounding the box. Visitors enter the tomb to pay their respects, often by reading a prayer, lighting a candle, or donating a coin to the charity box near the grave. It’s also common for visitors to make a wish or ask for divine intervention at the tomb, seeking guidance, blessings, or assistance in their lives.

Stay tuned for more captivating pictures and stories later in 2023. This series will expand with fresh images and narratives from new tombs I plan to visit during the summer. The journey continues, and I am excited to share these upcoming explorations with you.