House of al-Harawy, Ottoman residence in Cairo, Egypt
The House of al-Harawy is a residential dwelling in Cairo featuring two main facades with marble floors, intricately carved wooden screens, and ornate plaster decorations throughout. Multiple stories contain these decorative elements distributed across various rooms and corridors.
The building was constructed in 1731 by Ahmed bin Youssef Al-Sayrafi and witnessed major transformations in Cairo over two centuries. It later passed to a prominent physician whose long residence there extended into the late 1800s.
The house takes its name from a prominent physician who lived there during the 19th century. Separate areas within the structure reveal how wealthy households organized daily life, with distinct zones for welcoming visitors and for private family moments.
The house is open to visitors, though hours of access may vary depending on the season. It is best to confirm whether it is currently open to the public, and wear comfortable shoes since there are multiple levels to explore throughout the building.
The ground floor includes a spacious corridor, grinding mill facilities, and stabling areas that show how wealthy households managed their practical daily operations. These functional spaces reveal the working life that existed alongside the formal reception rooms.
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