Al-Azhar Mosque, Islamic prayer center in Islamic Cairo, Egypt
Al-Azhar Mosque is an Islamic house of prayer and educational center in Cairo, Egypt. Five minarets rise above multiple prayer halls and a central courtyard surrounded by arcaded walkways with pointed arches and marble columns.
The building was established in 970 as part of the Fatimid capital. The adjoining university developed over the following centuries into one of the oldest educational institutions in the world, still training scholars today.
The name Al-Azhar means "the radiant" in Arabic, reflecting the Fatimid builders' vision of enlightenment through knowledge. Students and scholars from across the Muslim world still gather in its courtyards to study theology and Islamic jurisprudence under the guidance of resident teachers.
Entrances for worshippers and visitors are located on Al-Azhar Street in Islamic Cairo. Access is available daily during and outside prayer times, with appropriate clothing required.
The 14th-century mihrab displays an inscription in gold mosaic that ranks among the finest examples of Mamluk craftsmanship. The adjoining library preserves manuscripts dating back to medieval times, covering sciences from astronomy to medicine.
Location: Cairo Governorate
Location: Cairo
Inception: 971
Founders: Jawhar al-Siqilli
Architectural style: Islamic architecture
Capacity: 20000
GPS coordinates: 30.04573,31.26270
Latest update: December 4, 2025 19:04
Cairo is home to millennia of history. The Giza Pyramids, built between 2686 and 2494 BC, stand alongside Fatimid mosques like the Ibn Tulun Mosque from 879, and Mamluk fortifications such as Saladin's Citadel from the 12th century. Religious heritage reflects community diversity: Saint Serge Church dates to the 4th century, while Sainte-Marie Church from the 7th century reuses elements of the Roman fortress of Babylon. The Cairo Museum, opened in 1902, displays over 120,000 archaeological artifacts including Tutankhamun’s burial mask. Khan Al-Khalili market, established in 1382, continues traditional trade along its alleys lined with spice and craft shops. The Gayer Anderson House exemplifies 16th-century Ottoman residential architecture. These sites span Egypt’s history from pharaonic antiquity to the Ottoman period.
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