Hafsid

Refers to art and architecture associated with the Islamic Hafsid rulers of Tunis who were one of four regional powers to emerge in the Maghrib after the collapse of the Almohad empire in 1212. The Hafsids ruled in the eastern area of North Africa. Important centers were the coastal cities of Tunis, Sousse, and Sfax. Hafsid culture is a meeting of east and west: the many Spanish refugees in the region brought their artistic traditions with them and the Hasfids also maintained close ties with the Mamluks of Egypt. The Hafsids were responsible for introducing the madrasa to the Maghrib and many were built as well as numerous mosques. The Hafsids, who saw themselves as champions of the Islamic faith, also commissioned many noteworthy religious manuscripts.