The old city is considered one of the most prominent features of Kairouan, as it was initially established to be an impregnable fortress during the Islamic conquests during the rule of Uqba bin Nafie, who considered it the headquarters of the armies. It is still bustling with life in its old corners, as it contains a number of landmarks visited by locals and tourists alike, as well as the many shops and markets that sell various traditional local products, and of course the many cafes and restaurants, including traditional and popular ones, where you can sit in relaxation after an exploratory tour.