The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Image Taken by Assmaa Rady 

If you ever find yourself wanting to travel back in time, today’s guide is the answer. For history-obsessed folks and marvellous architecture geeks, going to these Islamic parts of Cairo will definitely fuel your artistic soul. Full of museums, monumental mosques, and houses, historic Cairo carries a lot of our Egyptian and Islamic heritage from multiple eras.

Al Moez Ldin Allah Al Fatmi

El Moez Street in the Azhar area is considered an open museum as it holds around 33 historic buildings, such as many mosques and multiple old schools. It’s a must-visit for feeling the great ambience of the Islamic era. And while you’re there, don’t forget to swing by the Khan El Khalili, which has many fantastic shopping and hangout spots like El Fishawy cafe.

The City of A Thousand Minarets

Islamic Cairo’s glorious architecture is mainly represented in the charm of its mosques. Being home to many historic mosques, it earned the name of The City of A Thousand Minarets. Here are some mosques that you shouldn’t miss;

El-Azhar Mosque: built in the Fatimid era, El-Azhar Mosque has a unique spiritual vibe you’ll feel from the moment you enter the place.

Amr Ibn Al-As Mosque: The first mosque built in Egypt has a magical atmosphere, especially in the evening.

Ibn Tulun Mosque: With its spacious yard and distinctive architecture, Ibn Tulun has a calming and quiet essence that releases stress. You can also go up the minaret and enjoy the view of Cairo from above.

Citadel of Salah El-Din

Salah El-Din Citadel is considered one of Cairo’s most influential Islamic landmarks, offering a panoramic view of the city. It also contains Mohammed Ali’s Mosque, which has tall minarets, and the mosque of Al-Nasser Mohammed Ibn Kalawoun, which has historical architecture from different eras.

Houses and Domes

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In Fatimid Cairo, you’ll come across houses and domes of great heritage, like Beit El Seheimy, a grand mansion with unparalleled architecture, and Wekalet El-Ghouri, known for hosting several cultural and folk events. Visiting these two places lets you experience a completely different era in Cairo.

The Museum of Islamic Art

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Going to the Museum of Islamic Art is a must to immerse yourself in history and see thousands of artefacts from various Islamic eras. The numerous artefacts include ceramics, textiles, and metalwork, highlighting Islamic civilisation’s prosperity and flourishing in many fields.

Simply put, visiting Islamic Cairo is a one-of-a-kind experience that genuinely makes you feel the essence of our detailed and beautiful history. It makes you want to experience this era over and over.