This upland inside the Old City hosts places of worship for Jews (who call it Temple Mount, "Har HaBáyit") and Muslims (for whom the place is named Noble Sanctuary, "Haram esh-Sharif"). It was also the scene of events narrated in the Gospels, and its intense atmosphere can captivate everyone. Along with the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque, here you will find the smaller Dome of the Chain and four Minarets. The Sanctuary is enclosed in walls built by Herod the Great 2,000 years ago. Of the eleven gates, only one is open to non-Muslim visitors: the Mughrabi Gate, which is guarded by a security check. It's important to dress modestly when visiting the Temple Mount / Noble Sanctuary. Visitors should cover their legs and shoulders and bring a cap.

Considered the main attraction in Monastir and the best place to get a glimpse of ancient Tunisia, the Ribat built in 796 has been periodically renovated and reinforced to maintain its integrity and striking appearance. The oldest part of this defensive stronghold is situated around the lookout tower, which was built to locate enemy ships on the horizon. Visitors can climb the old watchtower for some expansive views over the city and visit some of the other more recent structures, such as prayer rooms that were added during the centuries following its inception. Film buffs might be interested to know that the Ribat has been used several times as a set for international movies such as Monty Python's 'Life of Brian' and 'Jesus of Nazareth'. Admittance to the fortress as well as the museum where some ancient artefacts are displayed is fairly inexpensive and well worth it.

Adjacent to the Al Aqsa Mosque, the Islamic Museum is dedicated to Islamic history and different Muslim religions. The building once belonged to the Knights Templar. The museum boasts as many as 600 Qur'an copies from various eras, each of them with an interesting history and different decorations. Other exhibits display traditional furnishings, weapons, and historical objects.