Al-Azhar Mosque

History and Importance of Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo

Al-Azhar mosque, the most famous in Cairo, was built in 970 during Fatimid dynasty, after the creation of Cairo. It was erected at the order of Al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah and the intention was to set up a place of worship and study for Muslims.

Al-Azhar was progressively a renowned institution and became one of the most famous institutions of the Muslim world; this is from mosque, it became a university where lectures are still given today and many people from around the world come to study Islamic law. It was transformed to an Al-Azhar University, which is still today a great centre of study.

Throughout different eras like Ayyubid, Mamluk and Ottoman periods, it was constantly renewed and amplified, each sultan wishing to contribute to its construction and architecture reflecting the style of the time. Therefore, it stands as the testimony of the Muslim History in Egypt.

Thus, the Al-Azhar Mosque represents today the symbol of knowledge, religion and eternal life, a testament to a thousand year of Islamic civilization.

Architecture and Design of Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo

The architecture of the Al-Azhar Mosque is an intricate mix of various Islamic architectural styles that developed throughout its history, which spans for many centuries. Due to numerous additions throughout the years the mosque displays styles from the Fatimid, Mamluk and Ottoman periods.

The large prayer hall is supported by a multitude of arches and columns, allowing a spiritual feel to the environment. Furthermore, the mosque is also celebrated for its graceful white minarets, which was reconstructed during the Ottoman period and are a famous piece of Islamic Cairo architecture.

The courtyard, or sahn, is spacious and has rows of arcades that let sunlight penetrate the whole area, emphasizing the beauty of the space. In the mosque you will be able to find complex Islamic calligraphy and geometric patterns throughout the walls and ceilings.

What is perhaps most admirable about the Al-Azhar Mosque is the way it merges ancient and new architecture while maintaining its distinct original style. Hence, the mosque is considered a religious landmark, and an important cultural monument of Cairo. 

Al-Azhar Mosque Visitor Guide: Dress Code & Hours

A visit to the Al-Azhar Mosque in Cairo can be very rewarding and peaceful experience, particularly when you first explore the Islamic Cairo sites.

Opening Hours and Entrance

The mosque is usually open to the public during the day, and the entrance is often complimentary. Please note, however, that you will not be allowed entry during prayer times.

Dress Code

You are highly encouraged to wear conservative clothing during your visit. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Women are encouraged to wear a head scarf upon entering the prayer room as this is still a place of active worship.

Walking and Comfort

It is advised that you wear comfortable shoes as a lot of walking around Islamic Cairo requires comfortable footwear when you are treading through stone pathways and courtyards.

Best time of day and photography

Photography is encouraged in most areas of the Al-Azhar Mosque so get your camera ready to shoot stunningIslamic architecture in Cairo. The most optimum times to visit would be in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the lighting is gentler and when the hustle and bustle of the day is just beginning to calm down.

How much time is required

An estimated visit takes about 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you invest in exploring the mosque and its surroundings.

Things to Do Near Al-Azhar Mosque in Islamic Cairo

A great perk of Al-Azhar Mosque is its prime location within Islamic Cairo, which has so much of nearby tourist interest that they may be visited during the same tour. 

Khan El Khalili Bazaar

A short 10-minute walk will take you to Khan El Khalili Bazaar, one of the most famous bazaars in the Middle East. You can bargain for souvenirs, spices, jewelry, etc and enjoy the hustle and bustle of authentic Egyptian culture.  

Al-Muizz Street

This is one place you definitely don't want to miss! Al-Muizz street, also an open-air museum, displays stunning examples of Islamic architecture; mosques, buildings, etc which date back to medieval Cairo.   

Al-Hussein Area

You can always count on Al-Hussein Area to be full of life with its range of cafs, street food, and traditional Egyptian restaurants.

Cairo Day Tours

Due to Al-Azhar's ideal position, it's a popular part of many Cairo day tours and an easy way to cram the Islamic landmarks of Cairo into a single itinerary.