Now the third largest city in Yemen, Ta’izz is also one of the country’s most cosmopolitan places, mainly due to the large student population. From the 13th through to the 15th century, Ta’izz enjoyed a golden period under rulers who encouraged the development of literature, architecture and medicine. Beautifull mosques were built in this period, including the 7th century Ashraffiya Mosque, with its twin minarets, and the Muddhaffariya Mosque of Turkish origin. The National Museum is one of the most interesting in the country and has a range of sometimes bizarre exhibits housed in the former palace of Imam Ahmed. The colourful souks are well worth a look around and are full of women merchants who are well known throughout the area for their financial acumen.