Explore the miraculous transformation of Cairo's neglected expanse into Al Azhar Park, an oasis of Islamic architecture and lush greenery. Discover this urban oasis nestled in Cairo's historic district, a testament to cultural preservation and environmental significance.
| Overview | |
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| Location | El-Darb El-Ahmar, Cairo |
| History | 20th century |
| Partner | Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC) |
| Size | 72 Acres |
| Design Style | Islamic Garden Styles |
| Impact | Environmental, Cultural |
Al Azhar Park is a celestial slice of green paradise created by the grace of God and provides ultimate bliss and allure at the heart and soul of every single traveler to Egypt. It was created by the Historic Cities Support Program of the AKTC "Aga Khan Trust for Culture". Although it was once a neglected expanse in Cairo, it has become a miraculous transformation and started to become a very famous tourist destination in Egypt. This miraculous marvel was established by angels to provide a magnificent glimpse of a beautiful mixture of great Islamic structures merged within a magical landscape of greenery.
Al Azhar Park for many generations has acted as the lung of Cairo for generations, contributing to the serenity and clarity of the entire capital. The vital 30 hectares of Al Azhar Park have given life to the city of minarets and miracles that made it transform into the most magnificent open-air museum on the face of the planet. Through exploring this heavenly park, everyone will discover the beauty and power of the force of nature that has graced Cairo, with the sight of beautiful botany creations that carry incredible tales and meanings.
The phenomenal Azhar Park came into existence in 1984 when Aga Khan IV visited Cairo during a conference and noticed the marvelous Al-Darassa hill, which is a historical site filled with 500 years of debris and ruins. He decided to transform this medieval area into a green oasis within the city through a Programme known as Historic Cities Support. He allocated $30 million for the project and entrusted it to a national architecture and urbanism firm. Clearing the site held many significant challenges due to centuries of accumulated debris. The processes of excavation, grading, and replacement with the right filling is about 160,000 m3, which took place around 1992 and involved the removal of 1.5 million cubic meters of rubble and soil, equivalent to over 80,000 truckloads.
The land was covered with good soil in order to make it able to grow life. During the project, the government added a new requirement to integrate three cisterns into the terrain to enhance the city's water supply, leading to a revision of the park's design. The redesigned layout divided the park into five sections based on slope inclination, featuring two hills on the south and north sides, a flat area to the north, a rolling topography hill to the east, and a steep western slope.
The designers emphasized incorporating classical Islamic landscape traditions in order to preserve the historical legacy of the site. This is evident in various architectural styles from different regions and periods, including orchard spaces, shaded sitting areas, and Fatimid archways utilized in constructing park buildings. Timurid and Persian influences are seen in fountains and water channels. The Nile River was the main source for feeding the water ponds in the park. Careful consideration was given to the choice of plantations based on the landscape and soil quality. The American University in Cairo conducted tests to ensure that the flora selected for the park were suitable for the local climate.
The gardens of al-Azhar were inaugurated in 2005, combining historical Islamic garden elements with modern design. The park features formal gardens, fountains, sunken gardens, Mamluk stonework, intersecting waterways, and Islamic geometric patterns. The park has playgrounds, cafes, and scenic overlooks, and it is supported by a reservoir made especially for the project.
During the excavation of the epic Al-Azhar Park, a remarkable discovery was made beneath layers of debris. A piece of the Ayyubid Wall was discovered to extend 1.5 km in length and hold a depth of 15 m. This historic wall and its associated towers are known to date back to the Ayyubid period, which was revealed in their full grandeur. It became clear that this rediscovered treasure was an integral part of the project of the park. Over the centuries, the stone wall had suffered from various forms of deterioration, which included disaggregation and flaking.
The wall segment was characterized by its consistent construction, featuring curtain walls, round-fronted towers, and the use of uniform materials. It was adorned with crenellations, stairwells, arrow slits, and chambers. The restoration efforts included two former eastern city gates, namely Bab al-Barqiyya and Bab al-Mahruq, which were uncovered and brought back to their original glory as part of this significant historical preservation project.
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Read MoreThe revitalization of Darb al-Ahmar was brought to the forefront by the discovery of the Ayyubid wall during the Al-Azhar Park project, which had a significant impact on this historically impoverished neighborhood in Cairo. The area had long suffered from a lack of basic services, including rubbish collection and sanitation, primarily due to its proximity to the city dump. The improvement brought by the park project posed a new challenge which is the potential for gentrification that could displace the existing residents with luxury developments. The area contained over sixty historical attractions in dire need of restoration.
In response to these challenges, new funding sources, including the Ford Foundation and the Egyptian-Swiss Development Fund, were sought to continue the revitalization of Darb al-Ahmar. The historical monuments were carefully restored and rehabilitated with a focus on functionality. This included rebuilding the madrasa of Umm al-Sultan Shaaban and the minaret of the mosque, according to historical research. The project expanded to contain various public spaces and buildings.
The sustainable development program aimed at socio-economic growth introduced various initiatives to leverage the skills of the local population, including small family businesses like carpentry and tile making. It included training workshops and the revival of traditional crafts like arabesque wood carving. Mass employment opportunities were created through projects like the Ayyubid wall restoration, which not only employed local residents but also offered training workshops. Additionally, the community actively participated in maintaining the park.
The program also provided apprenticeships in diverse fields like computers, mobile phone services, and office skills. Micro-credit initiatives supported more than 400 individuals in advancing their businesses. Notably, the project had a strong focus on empowering women, with a significant number of female participants in the training sessions. Al-Azhar Park project made significant contributions toward achieving several of the UN's Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). It contributed to eradicating extreme poverty through micro-credit and employment generation, ensuring environmental sustainability by rehabilitating cultural and natural assets, and promoting global/local partnerships and networks by pooling the resources of contributors.
The magnificent Al Azhar Park is known to be the sixth biggest public space which is found within Salah Salem Street, El-Darb El-Ahmar, in the Cairo Governorate. Everyone will get to witness some of the most golden works of art and architecture that rose next to the biggest green space ever created, which came in the shape of mosques, minarets, madrasas, and mausoleums.
The park is located across the eastern section of the City of the Dead, which houses many tombs of Mamluk Sultans & high-ranking officials. This greenery heaven holds the luxurious Sultan Hassan Mosque in its southern part, plus within its surroundings is the glorious Ayyubid Cairo Citadel.
The Azhar Park is a 72-acre space of greenery with an architectural design inspired by a historical Islamic garden that contains some of the most incredible water fountains leading in the direction of a small lake plus alleyways leading to Cairo Citadel. The entrance is decorated with beautiful gardens and pavilions displaying a classic Islamic design and is entirely surrounded by geometrically arranged orchards.
The park has a magnificent collection of enchanting plants, which made it earn the title of one of the world’s greatest 60 places and the global vision innovation award in 2005 from Travel + Leisure magazine. Al Azhar Park operates a sustainable entity that has acted as a catalyst for a range of urban regeneration projects in its vicinity for many ages. Its success serves as a replicable model for the development of other historic cities all over Egypt. Across the park are a number of incredible walkways, hills, pools, formal gardens, informal picnic areas, cafes, plazas, and restaurants.
Al Azhar Park is a living symbol of how thoughtful urban planning and conservation efforts can transform a city, making it more livable and culturally vibrant while preserving its historical heritage. Everyone can find a diverse number of experiences that promise to make your visit truly unforgettable. Here's a glimpse of the captivating attractions that will fill your day with excitement and create everlasting memories:
Everyone can go on a captivating tour through the park's dense greenery and vibrant blooms. Walking amongst the magical trees and flowers of Al Azhar Public Park feels like stepping into a piece of natural paradise, offering a serene environment for relaxation and memory-making. The park boasts a diverse array of exquisite plant species that invite you to unwind, soak in the splendid surroundings, and marvel at nature's creations.
The park's captivating landscape represents an unforgettable and beautiful photo session. The vibrant greenery and epic scenic views will enhance your pictures, ensuring your true beauty shines in the most flattering light. Photo sessions at this magical attraction promise a fun and memorable experience, bringing out the best in everyone and providing a perfect memento of your visit.
The park's hidden gem is an extraordinary handicraft gallery that showcases an array of exquisite, handcrafted items inspired by Egypt's rich Islamic history and cultural heritage. Each piece carries a story that reflects Egypt's grandeur, majesty, and innovation, spanning over 5,000 years of history. Your journey through the gallery will be a cultural and artistic exploration.
Al Azhar Park's kid's area is a haven of joy and entertainment for children of all ages. Packed with a wide range of toys and activities, it ensures your children have a fantastic time in a safe and secure environment. Watch as their faces light up with delight, knowing that they're in for an unforgettable experience filled with fun and laughter.
Al Azhar Park is the main reason behind creating cherished memories and experiences filled with the essence of the beauty and culture of the vivid nature of Egypt in the most immersive manner. Through our amazing Cairo excursions, you can also have an unforgettable tour to the Great Mosque of Mohamed Ali, a quest across the Citadel of Salah El-Din, a historical visit to the amazing Egyptian Museum, a journey across the glorious Cairo citadel, and head to the fabulous Pyramids in Giza Complex plus get the golden chance to cast your eyes on all the magical wonders of Cairo that stood the test of time.
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The entire country of Egypt deserve to be explored with its every heavenly detail but there are places that must be seen before any other such as the breathtaking Hurghada's red sea, The wonders of Cairo the pyramids of Giza, the great sphinx, the Egyptian Museum, Khan El Khalili Bazaar, the wonders of Luxor like Valley of the Kings, Karnak & Hatshepsut temple and the wonders of Aswan such as Abu Simbel temples, Philea temple, Unfinished obelisk and The Wonders of Alexandria like Qaitbat Citadel, Pompey's Pillar and Alexandria Library. Read more about the best places to visit in Egypt.
If you want to apply for a Visa On Arrival that lasts for 30 days then you should be one of the eligible countries, have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining and pay 25$ USD in cash, as for the E-Visa for 30 day you should have a valid passport for at least 8 months, complete the online application, pay the e-visa fee then print the e-visa to later be presented to the airport border guard. You could also be one of the lucky ones who can obtain a free visa for 90 days. Read more about Egypt travel visa.
Egypt has a variety of delicious cuisines but we recommend “Ful & Ta’meya (Fava Beans and Falafel)”, Mulukhiya, “Koshary”, a traditional Egyptian pasta dish, and Kebab & Kofta, the Egyptian traditional meat dish.
The best time to travel to Egypt is during the winter from September to April as the climate becomes a little tropical accompanied by a magical atmosphere of warm weather with a winter breeze. You will be notified in the week of your trip if the Climate is unsafe and if any changes have been made.
You should pack everything you could ever need in a small bag so you could move easily between your destinations.
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You will feel safe in Egypt as the current atmosphere of the country is quite peaceful after the government took powerful measures like restructuring the entire tourist police to include all the important and tourist attractions in Egypt. Read more about is it safe to travel to Egypt.
Wear whatever feels right and comfortable. It is advised to wear something light and comfortable footwear like a closed-toe shoe to sustain the terrain of Egypt. Put on sun block during your time in Egypt in the summer to protect yourself from the sun.
The best activity is by far boarding a Nile Cruise between Luxor and Aswan or Vise Versa. Witness the beauty of Egypt from a hot balloon or a plane and try all the delicious Egyptian cuisines and drinks plus shopping in old Cairo. Explore the allure and wonders of the red sea in the magical city resorts of Egypt like Hurghada and many more by diving and snorkeling in the marine life or Hurghada. Behold the mesmerizing western desert by a safari trip under the heavenly Egyptian skies.
There are a lot of public holidays in Egypt too many to count either religious or nation, the most important festivals are the holy month of Ramadan which ends with Eid Al Fitr, Christmas and new years eve. Read more about festivals & publich holidays in Egypt.
Egypt is considered to be one of the most liberal Islamic countries but it has become a little bit conservative in the last couple of decades so it is advised to avoid showing your chest, shoulders or legs below the knees.
Arabic is the official language and Most Egyptians, who live in the cities, speak or understand English or at least some English words or phrases. Fewer Egyptians can speak French, Italian, Spanish, and German. Professional tour guides, who work in the tourism sector, are equipped to handle visitors who cannot speak Arabic and they will speak enough English and other languages to fulfill the needs of all our clients.
The fastest way is a car, of course, a taxi. If you are in Cairo ride a white taxi to move faster or you could board the fastest way of transportation in Egypt metro if the roads are in rush hour.
The temperature in Egypt ranges from 37c to 14 c. Summer in Egypt is somehow hot but sometimes it becomes cold at night and winter is cool and mild. The average of low temperatures vary from 9.5 °C in the wintertime to 23 °C in the summertime and the average high temperatures vary from 17 °C in the wintertime to 32 °C in the summertime. The temperature is moderate all along the coasts.
It is the home of everything a traveler might be looking for from amazing historical sites dating to more than 4000 years to enchanting city resorts & beaches. You will live the vacation you deserve as Egypt has everything you could possibly imagine.
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