Al-Azhar Mosque, founded in 970 AD by the Fatimid Caliphate, is a major landmark in Cairo, blending spiritual, historical, and educational significance. Initially a Shi'a mosque, it evolved into Al-Azhar University, one of the world’s oldest. The mosque transitioned from a Shi'ite institution to a leading Sunni center over the centuries, with architectural influences from the Fatimids, Mamluks, and Ottomans. Today, Al-Azhar continues to serve as a global hub for Islamic scholarship and cultural exchange, offering both religious and secular education while maintaining its historic legacy.
Al-Azhar Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Islamic world, renowned for its spiritual, architectural, and educational significance. Founded over a thousand years ago in 970 A.D. by the Fatimid Caliphate, Al-Azhar was established to serve as a central mosque for Cairo and a beacon of Islamic knowledge. Over the centuries, it evolved into Al-Azhar University, now the world’s second-oldest continually operating university, renowned for its role in Islamic scholarship and cultural exchange.
With a history that mirrors the religious and political shifts in Egypt, Al-Azhar has become a symbol of resilience and pluralism, adapting from its original Shi’ite foundation under the Fatimids to its status today as a global authority in Sunni Islam.
Its architectural beauty reflects a blend of influences from various eras, from the intricate minarets and domes to the elegant marble courtyard. Al-Azhar remains a living institution, where traditional Islamic teachings meet modern disciplines, welcoming students, scholars, and visitors from around the globe.
Al-Azhar Mosque, established in 970 A.D. by the Fatimid Caliphate soon after their conquest of Egypt, holds an unrivaled place in Islamic history as one of the oldest and most respected centers of Islamic worship, scholarship, and authority.
Commissioned by the Fatimid Caliph al-Mu'izz li-Din Allah and built under the leadership of Jawhar al-Siqilli, a trusted general, the mosque was intended to serve as a grand congregational mosque and a center for Ismaili Shi’ite teachings, embodying the Fatimid dynasty's aspirations to make Cairo a focal point of Islamic culture and education.
The name Al-Azhar, likely inspired by Fatimah al-Zahraa, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad, reflects the mosque’s dedication to the luminous heritage of the Prophet’s family. Originally, the mosque aimed to spread Fatimid ideals and Shi’ite beliefs throughout the region, positioning Cairo as a hub for intellectual, spiritual, and political leadership in the Islamic world. Al-Azhar’s status as a Shi’ite institution changed when the Ayyubid dynasty, led by Saladin, took control of Egypt in the late 12th century.
Saladin, a staunch Sunni, temporarily restricted Al-Azhar’s role and replaced it with other institutions to promote Sunni Islam. Despite these changes, Al-Azhar adapted to the new religious climate and was revitalized under the Mamluks, who restored its place as a respected Sunni center of Islamic scholarship. The Mamluks initiated major expansions, creating new prayer halls, classrooms, and libraries, and re-established Al-Azhar as a leading authority in Sunni theology, drawing scholars from across the Muslim world to teach and study there.
In 988, Al-Azhar formally became a university, evolving into a revered academic institution with a curriculum that covered not only religious studies but also philosophy, language, and sciences, earning it the title of the world’s second-oldest continually functioning university.
Under the Ottomans, Al-Azhar grew into a symbol of cultural unity and a powerful institution whose influence extended across the Islamic empire. Though its autonomy was challenged during periods of colonial pressure, the mosque retained its respected role, symbolizing Egypt's intellectual independence and resilience.
The 1952 Egyptian Revolution marked a significant turning point as the mosque’s educational mission was broadened to include secular studies alongside religious studies, creating a unique model of Islamic scholarship and modern education.
Today, Al-Azhar Mosque remains not only a place of worship but also a prestigious institution that influences Islamic jurisprudence, philosophy, and education worldwide. Its centuries-old architecture, scholarly legacy, and role as a center for both tradition and progressive thought make it an enduring symbol of Islamic civilization’s intellectual depth and cultural resilience.
Al-Azhar Mosque is located in the heart of Cairo’s historic Islamic district, one of the oldest and most culturally rich areas of the city. Situated near other prominent landmarks such as the Sultan Hassan Mosque, the Mosque of Al-Hussein, and the Khan El Khalili Bazaar, Al-Azhar is easily accessible and serves as a focal point in Cairo’s Old City.
The mosque’s proximity to these other significant sites allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city's ancient Islamic heritage, with Al-Azhar standing as one of the crowning jewels of Cairo's rich architectural and spiritual landscape. Positioned close to Al-Azhar University, it also forms part of Egypt’s intellectual and cultural core, attracting scholars, students, and tourists from around the world.
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Al-Azhar Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, reflecting the evolving styles and influences from numerous dynasties over more than a millennium. The mosque has been repeatedly expanded, rebuilt, and renovated, transforming into a harmonious blend of architectural styles, including Fatimid, Mamluk, and Ottoman. The five towering minarets of Al-Azhar are architectural marvels, with each minaret representing a different period and style in Islamic history.
Three of these minarets date back to significant periods in the mosque’s development: 1340 during the Mamluk Sultanate, 1469 under Sultan Qaytbay, and 1510 under Sultan Al-Ghuri. The minarets are adorned with intricate geometric designs, ornamental calligraphy, and stunning stone carvings, each telling the story of the patrons who contributed to Al-Azhar’s grandeur.
The mosque’s vast prayer hall and its renowned marble-paved central courtyard are both architectural highlights. The courtyard, with its polished white marble and rows of arches, offers a peaceful space for contemplation and study. Additionally, Al-Azhar houses various educational facilities, including specialized schools for both religious and secular subjects, making it a pivotal institution for Egypt's scholarly and spiritual community.
During the French occupation in the late 18th century, Al-Azhar became a symbolic center of Egyptian resistance, with its scholars and students rallying against foreign forces. This role as a center of defiance further cemented Al-Azhar’s reputation as not just a place of worship and learning but a powerful emblem of enlightenment, resilience, and national pride in Egypt’s historical and cultural landscape. Today, Al-Azhar Mosque remains a revered symbol of Egypt's religious heritage and a vibrant center of Islamic education, bridging centuries of tradition with modern scholarship.
The exterior of Al-Azhar Mosque is a breathtaking example of Islamic architecture, showcasing the artistry of multiple historical periods, including Fatimid, Mamluk, and Ottoman. The mosque's five towering minarets, each built during a different era, are among its most striking features, displaying intricate details that reflect the unique styles of the periods in which they were constructed.
The facade includes a blend of pointed arches, domes, and Islamic calligraphy, making it a true architectural masterpiece. Its outer walls and the Bab al-Muzayinīn ("Gate of the Barbers") are adorned with geometric patterns and ornate carvings, while other entrances, like the Gate of Sultan Qaytbay, reflect the beauty and elegance of the late Mamluk style.
The spacious central courtyard, open to the sky and surrounded by arches and columns, serves as a serene gathering space that enhances the mosque's atmosphere of peace and reverence.
If you are already in Cairo and prefer to visit this landmark, then you have to check our holidays in Egypt from Ireland and choose your trip that's accompanied by a private Egyptologist tour guide. Or you can get a chance by exploring Cairo attractions, including the Al Azhar mosque, and discover the last attractions of Luxor & Aswan through our magnificent Nile river cruise.
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Al-Azhar Mosque is unique in its combination of religious, educational, and historical significance. Founded over a thousand years ago, it has served as a central hub for Islamic learning and scholarship, housing Al-Azhar University, the second-oldest university in the world. It is considered one of the foremost authorities in Sunni Islam and has played a crucial role in the religious, cultural, and intellectual life of Egypt and the Islamic world.
Its architectural evolution reflects the rich history of Islamic art and design, with each dynasty contributing elements that have made the mosque an extraordinary symbol of Islamic heritage. The mosque’s role in Egypt’s history, ranging from education to resistance against foreign occupations, adds to its cultural and historical significance.
Al-Azhar Mosque warmly welcomes tourists and visitors from all over the world. Non-Muslim visitors are allowed to enter the mosque and explore its beautiful interiors, but they are expected to dress modestly and follow respectful customs, such as removing their shoes upon entering.
The mosque’s staff is generally helpful in guiding tourists and providing insights into the mosque's history, architecture, and significance. Since Al-Azhar is an active place of worship and study, visitors are encouraged to plan their visits around prayer times to experience the space in a quiet, respectful manner. Visiting Al-Azhar offers a unique opportunity to engage with Egypt's Islamic heritage and understand its importance to both local and global communities.
Al-Azhar Mosque does not serve as a traditional mausoleum, but it does house the tomb of Abd al-Rahman Katkhuda, an Ottoman leader who contributed significantly to the expansion and renovation of the mosque during the 18th century. His burial within the mosque is a rare honor, as it represents one of the few instances where an individual was interred within the complex.
Abd al-Rahman Katkhuda was a respected patron of Islamic architecture in Cairo, known for his work in restoring and beautifying Al-Azhar as well as other historical sites throughout the city. His burial at Al-Azhar reflects his dedication to the mosque’s legacy and the respect he garnered for his contributions to Islamic architecture.
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.
We have been creating the finest vacations for more than 20 years around the most majestic destinations in Egypt. Our staff consists of the best operators, guides and drivers who dedicate all of their time & effort to make you have the perfect vacation. All of our tours are customized by Travel, Financial & Time consultants to fit your every possible need during your vacation. It doesn't go without saying that your safety and comfort are our main priority and all of our resources will be directed to provide the finest atmosphere until you return home.
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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