Al-Azhar Mosque: History, Architecture & Cultural Legacy

The Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the most outstanding and historic places in Cairo located in Egypt. It was established in 970 AD and it is a worshiping place and a high institution of Islamic learning. Al-Azhar Mosque is a famous house of worship renowned because of its magnificent Islamic architecture and cultural heritage and it is a regular destination of researchers, visitors, and pilgrims worldwide. Find out about the history and the architectural details of the mosque in the center of Cairo, and the context and the significance of the mosque.

Learn further details about Al-Azhar Mosque

Overview of Al-Azhar Mosque

Al-Azhar Mosque is a historic and cultural symbol of Cairo, known for its architectural elegance and role as a leading center of Islamic scholarship since its founding in the 10th century.

Location

Al-Azhar Mosque is a mosque in the middle of the city of Islamic Cairo, Egypt, or to be more specific, in the Al-Hussein district. It is located close to the Al-Azhar Street which happens to be one of the most historic and lively quarters of the city.

The mosque can easily be reached especially in downtown Cairo and some of the major attractions nearby include the Khan El Khalili Bazaar and the Mosque of Al-Hussein. It is centrally located to be frequented by the tourists and worshippers.

Who built Al-Azhar Mosque

The mosque is easily accessible from downtown Cairo and is close to major attractions like Khan El Khalili Bazaar and the Mosque of Al-Hussein. Its central location makes it a popular destination for both tourists and worshippers.

When was Al-Azhar Mosque built

Construction began in 970 AD and was completed in 972 AD, one of the first Fatimid Caliphates (which came into being after the first founding of Cairo). Caliph Al-Muizz li-Din Allah ordered it and it was constructed under the watchful eye of a general called Jawhar al-Siqilli.

It has become one of the oldest and most influential institutions of the Islamic world both as the mosque and the center of learning.

History of Al-Azhar Mosque

Al-Azhar mosque was built between 970 and 972 AD during the Fatimid caliphate under Caliph Al-Muʿizz li-Dīn Allāh. Once he established the new city of Cairo in 969 he mandated his general, Jawhar al-Siqilli, to construct the first mosque in the city. It was finished in 972 and was officially inaugurated as a place to pray.

Al-Azhar is a center of education, as it became in 988 which emerged beyond being a place of worship. The beginning of the spreading of Shiite doctrine, the mosque became also the place of studies of science, medicine, and literature. When the Ayyubid dynasty was at the rule of Saladin, however, the position of the mosque decreased since the man had religious priorities other than being Shii.

The mosque became important once more under the Mamluk times (12501517), when new schools, minarets and architectural features came up. Ottomans then went on to further expand the mosque further thus including the building of Bab al-Muzayinin (Barbers gate) making Al-Azhar a permanent monument of sunni Islamic scholarship and culture.

The historical background of Al-Azhar Mosque

Construction of Al-Azhar Mosque

Constructed in the heart of Islamic Cairo during 970 AD, Al-Azhar Mosque primarily reflects Fatimid Islamic architecture, though it also incorporates spolia—reused columns and decorative elements from earlier Roman and Greek buildings because of its growth throughout the centuries. The former mosque was small, rectangular with a size measuring 85 x 65 meters that had a prayer hall and central courtyard surrounded by walls.

The mosque features several historic gates, including Bab al-Muzayinin (Gate of the Barbers), added during the Ottoman expansion. It contains a white marble courtyard, ancient columns, a study room and a library containing more than 100,000 books including 8 th century manuscripts.

Detailed architecture

Al-Azhar mosque architecture is an embodiment of the thousand year long history of Islam, politics and culture in Egypt. Constructed in the Fatimid style, the mosque has developed a multi-layered multicultural architectural tradition combining the traditions of Romans, Greeks, Byzantines, Mamluk and Ottoman.

The pragmatic center of the mosque is the famous white marble court enclosed by four arcaded sides which are held by old columns- some of which date back to Roman and Greek era. In the middle of it, there is a fountain that contributes to the beauty and the use of the place.

Expansions took place in the Mamluk period when several luxurious madrasas such as Al-Taybarsiyya, Aqbugha, and Gawhariyya madrasas were built each of which incorporated exceptional marblework and a dome embellished with arabesque patterns. Distinguished minarets such as the Qaytbay, Al-Ghuri Minarets are also constructed during this period, which have luxurious twinned crowns.

Having five minarets, a spacious central dome, and a capacity of more than 20 000 worshippers, Al-Azhar will continue to be one of the architectural treasures of Islamic Cairo.

Architectural features of Al-Azhar Mosque

Political and religious importance

Al-Azhar Mosque has unfathomable political and religious values not only in Egypt, but in the entire Islamic world. It has been a central actor in the development of the discourse of Islam and also has played a key role in the Sunni circle of Islam, affecting religious belief, jurisprudence, and morality. The location of the mosque has been the center of national controversy, particularly in terms of its autonomy with the Egyptian state and whether it is leaning towards liberalism reforms or toward the Salafist conservative views.

Religiously, Al-Azhar is the place of residence of Al-Azhar University-which is among the oldest and prominent schools of Islamic education. Students in the whole Muslim world are drawn to study here, not only Sharia (Islamic law), but also entire disciplines such as literature, grammar, rhetoric, theology, law, medicine and philosophy.

The library of Al-Azhar contains more than 100,000 books, some of which are rare including those that date before the establishment of the mosque which further cements its status as a knowledge and religious citadel.

Top things to do at Al-Azhar Mosque

Al-Azhar Mosque offers a variety of meaningful and engaging activities for visitors. Here’s a list of top things to do at this iconic religious and cultural site:

• Mingle in praying: You can partake in the spiritual ambience by partaking in the daily prayers conducted in the main prayer hall and adjoining rooms.
• Read Islamic writings: Find a resident scholar or visit the mosque with its huge library (one of the finest in the country) filled with thousands of historic writings and manuscripts on Islam.
• Marvel at the architecture: Enjoy the mesmerizing architecture of the mosque very much and especially its gorgeous interior with a marble courtyard, decorated mashrabiya screens, and original minarets.
• Click photos: Click a picture of one of the most notable landmarks of Islamic architecture in Cairo which is ideal both to budding and professional photographers.
• Sit in the courtyard: Relax in the peaceful white marble courtyard surrounded by ancient columns, the setting is perfect to rest and have quiet thoughts.
• Islamic shopping: Visit local stores in the area adjacent to the mosque that sell traditional Islamic books and traditional prayer objects as well as souvenirs.
• Dine out locally: check out nearby restaurants and cafes that have the traditional Egyptian and Mediterranean food.
• Social interaction: Engage with international students and visitors at the mosque, where cultural and academic exchange is part of daily life.
• Visit the local area: The mosque is an ideal place to use as a foundation to explore the local attractions such as Al-Muizz Street, Khan El Khalili Bazaar and Cairo historical district.
• Relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere: Come and revel in serenity regardless of whether you are making a pilgrimage or on a tourist visit to the Al-Azhar Mosque built away in the metropolitan hubbub of Cairo.

Popular things to see and do at Al-Azhar Mosque

Accommodation and dining near Al-Azhar Mosque

Visitors to Al-Azhar Mosque will find a variety of nearby accommodation options and dining spots, offering convenient access along with authentic Egyptian hospitality and traditional Middle Eastern cuisine.

Accommodation

If you're planning to visit Al-Azhar Mosque, there are several convenient and comfortable accommodation options nearby that suit various travel needs and budgets. Here are some recommended areas and hotels:

• East bank of the Nile: It is one of the most excellent areas to be located in Cairo to get to the major tourist attraction sites in Cairo such as Tahrir Square, Egyptian Museum, the Citadel, and Khan El-Khalili Bazaar. It is also quite near to the Al-Azhar Mosque and is tourist friendly as well as being safe.
• Hotels in downtown Cairo: Many mid-range hotels as well as luxury hotels are located within a few minutes drive to the mosque. A lot of them have convenient access to local restaurants, shops, and historic sites.
• Barcelo Cairo Pyramids: This is a four star hotel that is on Shara Al Haram Avenue located in Giza near the Pyramids, which is a short drive from Islamic Cairo but not adjacent to the mosque. Although this is not directly next to the mosque, it is a great idea that offers modern convenience where you are intending to go to both Pyramids and the Islamic Cairo.

These accommodations offer convenience, safety, and access to rich cultural experiences.

Hotel near Al-Azhar Park

Dining

Located in the heart of Historic Cairo, Al-Azhar Mosque is surrounded by a variety of restaurants and cafés that offer authentic Egyptian cuisine and memorable local experiences. Here are some top dining spots nearby:

• Naguib Mahfouz Cafe: this small and beautiful cafe is located in a street of the Khan El-Khalili Bazaar where it is possible to try the traditional Egyptian food and have a relaxing time and smoke shisha.
• Studio Misr (Al- Azhar Park): A small restaurant situated within Al- Azhar park, offers the views of the whole old Cairo with the Saladin Citadel in the panorama, and the city skyline, a beautiful place to have a dinner with a view.
• El Fishawy Caf: It is one of the most well-known cafes in Cairo, covered with mirrors and history. One of the most popular cafes among the Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz, it makes a perfect place to take tea or coffee after wandering in the bazaar.
• Neffa El-Najahi: This popular local restaurant offers meaty dishes in big servings and inexpensively priced menus--a good choice when wanting to experience the authentic Egyptian tastes.

How to get to Al-Azhar Mosque

Al-Azhar Mosque is centrally located in Historic Cairo and can be reached easily by several means of transportation. Here are the most common options:

• Taxi: Cairo is abundant in taxis which are cheap. There is a Cairo International Airport to Al-Azhar Mosque which takes approximately 40 minutes at a cost of 150 EGP.
• Cairo Metro: Cairo Metro is quite modern and efficient. One can take a short taxi or foot walk to the nearest metro, which is Ataba or Al-Shohadaa. The complete trip depending on the airport can require approximately 1 hour and 15minutes and approximately 5 EGP.
• Hotel Shuttle: Several hotels in Cairo provide their visitors with free or charged shuttle to key sightseeing locations such as the Al-Azhar Mosque. Enquire when booking your hotel.
• Shared Taxi (“Service”): Shared taxis can be a good alternative to the local experience but are budget friendly and less reliable since they are usually crowded.

Best ways to reach Al-Azhar Mosque

Best time to visit Al-Azhar Mosque

The ideal time to visit Al-Azhar Mosque depends on the experience you’re seeking. Here are the best times to plan your visit:

• Ramadan: Ramadan is the holiest month of the year and the most spiritually good in Al-Azhar. The mosque is packed with worshipers and expressed prayers as well as a tight knit sense of a community, more so when it comes to evening prayers (Taraweeh).
• Late afternoon or early morning: To be milder and have a pleasant atmosphere and good light to take photos, an evening closer to sunset or in the morning is the most relaxed atmosphere.
• Mild weather months (October to April): The weather in Cairo becomes less draining during this month and one is able to tour around the mosque and other attractions effortlessly on foot.

Tips you need to know before visiting

Al-Azhar Mosque is one of Cairo’s most visited religious and cultural landmarks. To ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience, keep these tips in mind before your visit:

• Dress in conservative: Men should put on conservative clothes that do not reveal arms and legs and women should dress moderately. Wear loose or non-revealing clothes.
• Take off your shoes: You are required to remove your shoes before getting into prayer sections. Put them on the provided storage stands at the entrance.
• Be respectful inside: Do not make loud conversations, do not pass in front of people who are praying and act calm and respectful.
• Be a part of a guided tour: A guided tour will help to know the deep history of the mosque, the architectural and religious significance of the mosque.
• See the local markets: Visit such local markets around the mosque as Khan El Khalili to buy spices, crafts and souvenirs.
• Try out local food: When visiting nearby eateries and cafes, use the local flavour of Egyptian meals to have a truly cultural experience.

These tips will enhance your visit to Al-Azhar Mosque and help you better appreciate its beauty and importance.

FAQs about Al-Azhar Mosque

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand and prepare for your visit to Al-Azhar Mosque.

What is the recommended dress code?

Visitors to Al-Azhar Mosque are expected to dress modestly. Men should wear long pants and shirts with sleeves, while women are required to cover their arms, legs, and hair with a headscarf. Avoid tight, transparent, or revealing clothing to show respect for the religious and cultural setting.

Can non-Muslims visit Al-Azhar Mosque?

Non Muslims can indeed visit Al-Azhar Mosque. The people who visit should adhere to the dress code and act in a respectful manner, more so, during prayer sessions. During some meetings, it can be closed to some areas, that is why non-Muslims have no restrictions to know the great architecture and history of this house of worship during other sessions. There is also a guided tour.

What architectural styles are present in Al-Azhar Mosque?

Al-Azhar Mosque has a combination of architectural designs that denotes the history of Egypt concerning Islamic ruling. The mosque is largely Fatimid in its origin, but it contains elements of Mamluk and Ottoman origin. The visitors will find columns that were typical of Romans and Greeks, detailed mashrabiya screens, marble courtyards, and some minarets that took place in different eras depicting centuries of religion and culture.

Does Al-Azhar Mosque have a library?

Yes, Al-Azhar Mosque has a historic library that is one of the oldest in the Islamic world. It contains over 100,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts dating back centuries. The library serves scholars, students, and researchers, offering valuable resources in Islamic law, theology, science, and classical Arabic literature.

What is Al-Azhar University's role today?

Al-Azhar University today plays a leading role in Islamic scholarship, offering degrees in Sharia, theology, Arabic language, and more. It continues to shape religious thought and education across the Muslim world. It serves as a major resource for Islamic scholars and students, offering valuable texts in theology, jurisprudence, Arabic language, and various branches of Islamic knowledge.

In conclusion

Finally, Al-Azhar Mosque is the landmark that you cannot afford to miss visiting in Cairo because it gives an in-depth understanding of Islamic architecture, history, and culture. It does not matter which of the aims brought you to worship, learn or visit, the mosque is an exceptional and enriching experience before your heart in Historic Cairo. Travelers should consider going to Egypt to witness great places such as Al-Azhar Mosque, they can easily use the official Egypt Immigration Service site and receive an e-visa to easily enter Egypt.