The Legacy of Islamic Medieval Cairo
Islamic Medieval Cairo, also known as Historic Cairo, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It showcases Egypt’s rich architectural and cultural heritage, dating from the 7th century onward. The area is famous for its stunning mosques, madrasas, tombs, and other significant structures. These reflect the city’s historical importance as a center of Islamic learning, culture, and governance. The period between the 9th and 15th centuries, often called the Islamic Renaissance, marked a golden age for Cairo. It made the city a focal point of the Islamic world.
A City of Unparalleled History
The 1951 Survey of Egypt indexed 651 buildings in Islamic Medieval Cairo. This included mosques, madrasas, mausoleums, khanqahs, Khans, Wikalas, and private homes. Today, it is estimated that some 450 remain. Cairo likely has more medieval buildings than almost any other city in the world.
Navigating the Historic Streets
For visitors wanting to explore the riches of medieval Cairo, it’s best to divide the area into manageable segments. Most sites are only accessible on walking tours. This is because many fall on small, tiny streets that tourist vans cannot access. The area is so vast that you cannot see it in a single day. Therefore, dividing it into zones is advisable. This allows you to see all of it and to choose which sites to visit or skip.
Available tour routes covering the sites of Islamic Medieval Cairo:
- Route 1: From Saladin’s Citadel (Bab El-Wazir Street) to Bab Zuwaila.
- Route 2: From Bab Zuwaila to Al-Azhar Mosque (Al-Muizz Street).
- Route 3: From Khan El-Khalili to Bab El-Foutouh & Bab El-Nasr (Al-Muizz Street).
Key Sites in Islamic Medieval Cairo
1. Al-Azhar Mosque
One of the oldest mosques in Cairo, Al-Azhar Mosque was founded in 970 CE and is a key institution for Islamic scholarship. It serves as a university and is renowned for its role in the dissemination of Islamic teachings. The mosque’s architecture features beautiful domes and intricate decorations, making it a significant landmark in Islamic Cairo.
2. The Citadel of Cairo
Constructed by Salah ad-Din (Saladin) in the 12th century, the Citadel of Cairo is a medieval fortress that served as the seat of power for many rulers. It offers stunning views of the city and houses several important mosques, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali, which is known for its impressive dome and minarets. The Citadel is a testament to Cairo’s military and political history.
3. Mosque of Ibn Tulun
Built in the 9th century, the Mosque of Ibn Tulun is one of the oldest mosques in Cairo and is notable for its unique architectural style, which includes a large courtyard and a distinctive minaret. The mosque’s design reflects the influence of both Islamic and Byzantine architecture, making it a significant example of early Islamic art.
4. Al-Hakim Mosque
Constructed during the Fatimid period in the 10th century, Al-Hakim Mosque is known for its grand scale and unique architectural features, including its large courtyards and towering minarets. The mosque has undergone various restorations and remains an important place of worship and historical significance.
5. Bab Zuweila
Bab Zuweila is one of the remaining gates of the old city walls of Cairo and serves as a historical landmark. It is notable for its impressive architecture and the two minarets that rise above it, which were added later. The gate provides a glimpse into the medieval fortifications that once protected the city.
6. Al-Muizz Street
Al-Muizz Street is the heart of Islamic Cairo, lined with historic buildings, mosques, and markets. This street is a living museum of medieval architecture, showcasing the rich history of the city. Walking along Al-Muizz Street allows visitors to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Cairo’s past.
7. Khan el-Khalili Bazaar
This bustling market dates back to the 14th century and is one of the oldest bazaars in the Middle East. Khan el-Khalili is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, offering a wide range of goods, from spices and textiles to jewelry and souvenirs. The bazaar is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, providing a glimpse into the commercial life of medieval Cairo.
8. The Mosque-Madrasa of Sultan Hassan
Built-in the 14th century, this mosque-madrasa complex is an architectural masterpiece of Mamluk architecture. It features a grand courtyard, intricate tilework, and towering minarets. The mosque served as a center for Islamic education and remains one of the most important religious sites in Cairo.
9. The Tombs of the Nobles
Located in the southern part of Islamic Cairo, the Tombs of the Nobles are a collection of ancient burial sites that date back to the early Islamic period. These tombs provide insight into the burial practices and architectural styles of the time, showcasing beautifully decorated facades and intricate carvings.
Islamic Medieval Cairo is a remarkable area that encapsulates the rich history and cultural heritage of Egypt. The Sites of Islamic Medieval Cairo are numerous mosques, madrasas, and historical sites that reflect the city’s significance as a center of Islamic learning and governance.
Today, the sites of Islamic Medieval Cairo continue to attract visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Cairo’s past and its enduring legacy in the Islamic world. Exploring Islamic Cairo is not just a journey through history; it is an opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and architectural beauty that define this extraordinary city.
