This seedling had the potential to develop into the city of Cairo that we know today, which is home to some of the most spectacular tourist attractions in the world. Old Cairo was the seedling that had the capacity to grow into this metropolis. Early settlements in Old Cairo were founded at the beginning of an old canal that was built between the Nile River and the Red Sea around two thousand years ago. This canal was constructed between the two bodies of water. Despite the passage of time, Old Cairo continues to be the location of some of the most remarkable historical sites that can be found anywhere in the globe. The Coptic Cairo viewing tour includes a substantial number of sites that date back to the Greco-Roman period. These landmarks are of major historical significance. This area, which at the time was thought to symbolize the frontier between Upper and Lower Egypt, was the place where the Babylon fortification complex was erected.
Here are some of the most amazing places to see in Old Cairo:
Salah El-Din was a young boy living in Tikrit, Iraq, in the year 1137 AD. He was interested in a variety of subjects, including the Quran, theology, astronomy, mathematics, and law throughout his childhood. He was given instructions to become a member of the military by his uncle, Asad-al-Din Shirkoh, who was the leader of the Zengid dynasty.
As a result of his outstanding performance in conflicts, Salah El-Din was promoted to positions of leadership within the military operations. He was able to effectively advance from the position of soldier to that of King of Egypt and Syria by using his remarkable abilities and tactics that were skillfully performed. Through the use of his power, he was able to topple the Fatimids and continue to exercise rule in Egypt.
The Citadel, which served as the focal point of these powerful defenses, was responsible for protecting the city from the raised rocky hills that towered above it. In the years leading up to Khedive Ismail’s move to Abdeen Palace in the 1870s, the state capital of Egypt was Saladin’s Citadel, which had been built in 1183 AD and served as the administrative center for a period of seven hundred years.
Following its initial construction as a fortification against the Crusaders, the Citadel was later expanded by a number of different monarchs. The Citadel was the primary line of defense for the city, protecting it from the steep terrain that towered above it. For seven hundred years, the Citadel was the location where Egypt’s government was headquartered. A change in the site of the government occurred in 1870 as a consequence of Khedive Ismail’s migration to the Abdeen Palace, which was located in the central areas of Cairo.
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In the eyes of many, Mohammad Ali is the founder of contemporary Egyptian culture. He created the Khedivate of Egypt and Sudan in 1805. Then followed the French occupation between 1798 and 1801, after which his descendants controlled Egypt until the free officers’ revolt in 1952.
Mohamed Ali constructed one of Cairo’s most remarkable structures, which still exists today. After his son died, he erected the Alabaster mosque in his son’s memory. The mosque is readily visible from the rest of the compound. In addition to the Mohamed Ali Mosque, the Citadel houses the National Military Museum, which has the uniforms and weaponry of troops of the period, a police museum, and various other museums associated with Mujhamed Ali’s palace.
Mohammad Ali is widely regarded as the person who laid the groundwork for the emergence of present Egyptian culture. In 1805, he established the Khedivate of Egypt and Sudan by his actions. His ancestors continued to exercise power over Egypt until the free officers’ revolution in 1952, which occurred after the French occupation that lasted from 1798 to 1801.
The amazing edifice that Mohamed Ali built in Cairo is still standing today. It is one of the city’s most notable buildings. The Alabaster mosque was built by him in his son’s honor after his son passed away. From any other part of the site, the mosque may be seen effortlessly. Besides the Mohamed Ali Mosque, the Citadel is home to a number of other museums that are related with Mujhamed Ali’s palace. These include the National Military Museum, which displays the uniforms and equipment of soldiers who served during that time period, as well as a police museum.
If you are interested in learning about the history of Islamic Cairo as well as seeing modern buildings in addition to historic monuments, then Al-Muizz street is the ideal location to visit. When you go to Al-Muizz street, you should check out some of the most well-known places to view, for example:
Within the Al-Azhar district, the Ghoreya complex is a well-known landmark. It can be found near the beginning of Al-Muizz street. In the direction of the east side of the highway is where you will find the tomb that Al-Ghuri assembled. Regrettably, his remains from the Ottoman war were not laid there since they were lost during the conflict.
The Mosque of Sultan Al Mansur Qalawun exemplifies the rich history and exquisite architecture of ancient Islamic Cairo. Sultan Al Mansur Qalawun, who ruled from 1281 until 1290, financed this mosque. It served not just as a site for prayer, but also as an emblem of the Sultan’s power and commitment.
The mosque was constructed at a period of cultural flourishing, exemplifying the intricate design and artistry characteristic of Islamic architecture. The impressive geometric patterns and calligraphy on its grand façade render it akin to a masterpiece. The mosque’s uniquely shaped minaret ascends into the sky, inviting both worshipers and visitors.
The Mosque of Sultan Al Mansur Qalawun has cultural value that transcends its architectural design. It significantly influenced the evolution of Islamic architectural styles in Egypt and beyond, influencing the designs of subsequent mosques. The mosque’s exquisite courtyard and prayer hall serve not just as sites of worship but also as communal gathering spaces, reflecting the societal dynamics of the era.
Preservation efforts have been undertaken to maintain the mosque’s structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. However, like to several other historical sites, it faces challenges due to environmental factors and urban expansion. Current restoration efforts aim to ensure that this magnificent structure continues to inspire people for years ahead.
The Mosque of Sultan Al Mansur Qalawun is centrally located in Cairo, facilitating access for people to appreciate its magnificence. To fully grasp the site’s historical context, it is advisable to attire oneself modestly and engage with knowledgeable counselors.
In conclusion, the Mosque of Sultan Al Mansur Qalawun transcends mere architecture; it is a vibrant historical artifact that exemplifies the aesthetic and cultural richness of the Islamic Golden Age. Its legacy endures, serving as a reminder of the beauty and complexity of Islamic architecture.
The mosque is a beautiful example of Mamluk building. It was built in the 1400s. Its huge size amazed people back then, and its design and beauty still amaze people today.
The mosque in Old Cairo is named for Sultan Hassan, who gave Prince Muhammad Ibn Babylik Al-Muhassani charge of building it. It took four years to make the mosque out of stones and bricks. It was put up on what used to be the horse market, or Souk al Khayl.
People in the Islamic world think of the mosque as one of the most famous buildings. It is important to remember that the Giza pyramids were important in ancient Egyptian times, and so is the Sultan Hassan Mosque. The mosque’s interior is very beautiful, and there is a big court in the middle. Not only is the mosque famous for its huge size, but it is also seen as the most representative of Cairo’s beautiful mosques.
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This article was updated and rewritten in part by Hesham El Gammal on April 7th, 2025 + fact-checked.
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