Egyptian Mosques

Because Christianity and Islam have long been an important part of the Egyptian society and culture, today you will find numerous temples and mosques that are truly magnificent. In fact, when in the capital city of Cairo, you will learn that one of its nicknames is “the city of 1,000 minarets” but in reality, there are more, which is why finding so many historical mosques is not surprising. Although you may be planning a trip to Egypt primarily for the Sphinx and Pyramids, you will be completely impressed when you see the architecture and design of the mosques.

What makes the Egyptian mosques even more fascinating is that in this country, you have so many different influences from ruling empires. Because of this, the mosque styles widely vary with some dating back to early Islam days all the way up to modern day society. Many of the Egyptian mosques are now open to the public and considered an important part of learning the culture for tourists. However, some mosques remain closed off to the public.

The majority of mosques open to tourists can be found in Islamic Cairo with the oldest being in Coptic, which is also called Christian or Old Cairo, known as the Amr Ibn El-Aas Mosque. Then, there is another mosque located at the world’s oldest University by the name of Al-Azhar Mosque. Interestingly, this second mosque is believed to be one of the most influential of all Egyptian mosques in Islam and therefore, is one closed off to the public.

You will find that many of the mosques located in Cairo are multi-functional. For instance, it is common to see a mosque with an Islam school facility called a Madrasa attached or perhaps tombs, mausoleums, hospitals, or other types of structures connected. Additionally, many tourists find it interesting that many of the mosques are found in strange places. In this case, you would find the Abu Al-Haggag Mosque inside the Temple of Luxor or the Fatimid Mosque in Sinai in the St. Catherine’s monastery, places you would certainly not expect to find a mosque.

The reality is that mosques in Egypt are everywhere. Although there are far too many to list in just one article, we wanted to provide you with a few options to consider, each beautiful and worth visiting.

Hanging Mosque - The Hanging Mosque is located atop five archways where artists once lived. First built in 1375 by Prince Soliman Ibn Mouhamed, this mosque is quite impressive with a double flight of stairs that lead to the main front door.

Mamluk Mosque – Built in the 15th century, the Mamluk Mosque is situated in a densely populated area of Cairo called the Al-Jamaleyia quarter. This mosque was founded in 1407 by Amir Jamal Al-Din Al-Ustadar who was a powerful amir while Sultan Al-Nasr Farag Ibn Barquq ruled Egypt in 1399. The architectural style is incredible and common for other complexes constructed during this same era. Interestingly, this mosque is located on a very busy street but designed so it does not stand out. The decorum is rich and beautiful and the mosque features a wonderful courtyard.

Refa’I Mosque – Designed in a Bahri Mameluke style, this particular mosque actually faces the Sultan Hassan Mosque and covers more than 75,000 square feet. Named after Shekh Ali Abu El-Shoubak, a powerful, Muslim holy man, this mosque was finally completed in 1912. In addition to being a mosque, Refa’l Mosque also served as the Royal Crypt of Egypt’s latest dynasty.

Last Updated: 10/19/2006 3:14:00 PM

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