Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i

The Mausoleum of Imam al-Shafi'i features a 15-meter square base with thick stone walls and a wooden dome reaching 27 meters in height.

Sultan al-Malik al-Kamil commissioned the construction of the current mausoleum structure in 1211, following an earlier tomb built by Saladin in 1176.

The mausoleum contains the burial place of Imam al-Shafi'i, a fundamental scholar who established one of the four main schools of Sunni Islamic law.

Visitors can explore three decorated mihrabs on the southern wall, featuring polychrome marble frames and detailed wooden carvings throughout the interior.

A copper boat sits at the pinnacle of the dome, with some interpretations suggesting it held food for birds or represented the depth of al-Shafi'i's knowledge.

Location: Cairo Governorate

Part of: Islamic Cairo, City of the Dead

GPS coordinates: 30.01060,31.25790

Latest update: September 23, 2025 14:19