Sidi Arif Mosque, Islamic prayer house in Sohag, Egypt
Sidi Arif Mosque is a concrete mosque in Sohag, Egypt, built with a central dome and two minarets rising above the surrounding streets. Inside, five prayer naves are separated by columns, with red granite walls and painted ceiling decorations covering the interior.
The mosque dates back to the 14th century and was rebuilt and changed several times over the following centuries. A major reconstruction took place in 1968, and further work was carried out in 1998.
The mosque is named after a local saint and serves as an active place of worship used by people from across the city. The mihrab and wooden minbar are clearly visible inside, showing the traditional forms of Islamic prayer practice.
The mosque is close to Sohag's main railway station and the entrance to Souk El-Qisareya market, making it easy to reach on foot from both. Visitors should wear modest clothing, and men and women use separate entrances when entering.
The mosque holds a Mamluk prince's cemetery and the burial site of Murad Bey, who fled here after leaving the Cairo Citadel during Muhammad Ali's rise to power. Most visitors walking through the prayer hall are unaware that this history lies beneath the same roof.
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