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Al-Rifa’i Mosque: A Visitor’s Guide to Cairo’s Royal Mausoleum

Discover the Al-Rifa'i Mosque, a 19th-century architectural marvel in Cairo built to rival the adjacent, medieval Sultan Hassan Mosque. This guide explores its grand Mamluk-revival style, its ornate interior, and its unique role as the royal mausoleum for Egypt's modern dynasty, including Khedive Ismail and King Farouk, as well as the final resting place of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, the last Shah of Iran.

EFT Team
September 3, 2025
Updated: November 5, 2025

The Royal Mausoleum of Cairo: Al-Rifa’i Mosque

The Al-Rifa’i Mosque, a stunning and relatively modern addition to Islamic Cairo’s skyline, stands directly across from the Sultan Hassan Mosque. Its grandeur and opulent design immediately capture your attention. Built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, this mosque serves a dual purpose: a place of worship and the final resting place for Egypt’s royal family. This article explores the history, architectural details, and significant burials within this magnificent structure.

A Royal Commission: The History of Al-Rifa’i Mosque

Hoshiyar Qadin, the mother of Khedive Ismail, first commissioned the Al-Rifa’i Mosque in 1869 CE. She planned it as the family’s mausoleum. The initial architect, Husayn Fahmi Pasha, modeled the design on the adjacent Mamluk monuments. However, the project faced numerous delays and was not completed until 1912 CE. Max Herz Pasha, a renowned Hungarian-Jewish architect, oversaw the final phase. He ensured the mosque’s design harmonized with its Mamluk neighbor, creating a visually striking pair. The project spanned more than 40 years. It became a symbol of the ambitions of the Muhammad Ali dynasty.

Architectural Harmony: A Blend of Styles

The mosque’s design is a masterful blend of Mamluk and other Islamic styles. The architect carefully crafted the building to mirror the scale and grandeur of the Sultan Hassan Mosque. He used intricate carvings and soaring minarets. The main entrance features a massive, ornate portal. Stone carvings and calligraphic inscriptions decorate the facade. These details showcase a revival of Mamluk artistry. The exterior creates a sense of majestic balance with the surrounding historic structures.

The Opulent Interior and Royal Tombs

The mosque’s interior is a breathtaking display of luxury. Intricate marble panels cover the walls, and beautiful stained-glass windows filter light into the vast space. A massive dome, supported by columns, rises over the central prayer hall. Gilded details and rich carpets add to the sense of grandeur. This space perfectly blends religious reverence with royal splendor.

The Al-Rifa’i Mosque is most famous for its royal tombs. Members of the Muhammad Ali dynasty are buried here. The most notable tomb belongs to King Farouk I, the last king of Egypt. Other members of his family rest here as well. The tomb of the Al-Rifa’i Mosque founder, Hoshiyar Qadin, is also located inside. In a unique historical twist, the last Shah of Iran, Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, is also buried here. He was granted asylum in Egypt and was laid to rest in this royal mausoleum. This makes the mosque a vital site for those interested in modern Egyptian history and international relations.

A Legacy of Splendor and Respect

The Al-Rifa’i Mosque stands as a magnificent example of late 19th-century Islamic architecture. It shows a deep respect for historical styles while incorporating modern building techniques. Its dual function as a place of worship and a royal burial ground gives it a unique significance. It continues to attract countless visitors who come to admire its beauty, learn about Egypt’s royal past, and experience a sense of tranquility. It’s a key part of Cairo’s rich Islamic History. The mosque’s location is perfect. It is part of a larger historical complex that includes the Citadel and the surrounding area. Visitors can explore a series of historic sites in one trip. The grandeur and historical importance of the Al-Rifa’i Mosque cement its status as a must-see landmark.

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