Islamic Cairo

Cairo

#9 Among Things To Do in Cairo

₹ 654 onwards

Also Refered As:

Masr al-Qadima, Historic Cairo

Islamic Cairo, Cairo Overview

Islamic Cairo, also known as Medieval Cairo, is a large area that houses most of the Islamic monuments. It is a UNESCO site and a labyrinthine district with centuries of Islamic heritage and cultural richness. In addition to shopping and enjoying Islamic architecture, strolling down the ecstatic streets of medieval Cairo is one of the best things to do in this part of the city.

As visitors wander through the narrow alleyways of Islamic Cairo, they'll encounter various architectural gems. Some of the most important sites in this historic area are Midan Hussein and Sayyidna al-Hussein Mosque (not accessible to non-Muslims), Cairo Citadel, Sultan Hassan Mosque, Al-Azhar Park, and Bayt al Suhaymi. Visitors can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and scents of traditional Egyptian souks, haggling over spices, textiles, and intricate handicrafts. Many poor residents of Islamic Cairo occupy some of the old buildings right next to some of the popular and important historical mosques and monuments. The area is a unique blend of poverty and antiquity that gives it a charm all its own.

1. Al-Muizz

Al-Muizz is one of the oldest streets in Cairo, connecting the southern gate of Bab-Zuweil with the northern gate of Bab-en-Nasr and Bab-al-Futuh. The street is 30 minutes from Downtown Cairo and is c (Read More)onsidered a centre of Islamic architectural treasures from medieval times. Traversing the street, numerous mosques can be seen along with the goldsmiths bazaar, the markets for bowls, pots and ornaments, and the coppersmiths' bazaar.

Located on the east side Al- Muizz Street in Islamic Cairo, Al-Hakim Mosque was restored in 1980 and reopened for worship. The mosque is popular for its restored or replaced Quranic inscriptions done (Read More)in Kufic script. The mosque has a vast open courtyard with beautiful interiors and exteriors.

Timings : Sunday - Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

One of the biggest markets in the world, Khan al-Khalili, is located in Islamic Cairo. The local market is worth visiting With constant selling, bargaining, and purchasing. It is known for its semipre (Read More)cious and expensive stone works and handicrafts, which range in size to simulated pyramids.

Timings : 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM

Other Important Objective Information : N/A

A remarkable establishment, Al-Azhar Mosque is a marvellous building in Cairo. Having been built in AD972, It is really old and one of the prime landmarks in the city. It is also one of the oldest sur (Read More)viving mosques and one of the oldest universities in the world.

Spread across a sprawling area of 30 hectares, the Al-Azhar Park in Cairo is another place which is going to leave you spellbound with its beauty. The park is surrounded by some of the most historic a (Read More)nd significant districts of Cairo city, and is a must visit place for tourists as well as local residents of the city.

Timings : Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Friday and Saturday: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM

The only surviving southern gate of the city, Bab Zuweila was built in medieval times and served as an entry to the city of Al-Qahira. The spectacularly standing minarets on the gate beautifully depic (Read More)t the architecture of that era. The gate was also popular for being used to execute criminals and prisoners by the rulers of that time. Tourists often enjoy the mesmerising views from the top of this beautiful landmark.

Timings : 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Entry Fee : Adults: EGP 20,
Children: EGP 10