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.
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