Al-Hakim Mosque — Attraction in Cairo

The construction of the Al-Hakim Mosque began with the command of God located at the end of the “Al-Mu’iz Din Al-Fatimiyyin” Street in Al-Jamaliah neighborhood, during the reign of Al-Aziz Al-Fatimiyyah in 989 A.D. The ruler, by the command of God, until he finished building it in the year 1012 AD, and the first prayer in it was on March 20, 1013.

The mosque has a length of about 120 meters and a width of 113 meters. There are two minarets surrounded by two great pyramid-shaped bases. Each base of two cubes is mounted on top of the other and the upper cubic is placed back slightly above the lower. Each of the two cubes protrudes from an octagonal minaret in the middle of this waterfront Between the two minarets, there is the entrance to the ancient mosque.

The entrance to the archaeological mosque is considered the first prominent entrance in Cairo's mosques, covered by a cylindrical cellar, width of 3.48 meters and length of 5.5 meters, at the end of which is a width of 2.21 meters and held with a horizontal contract of stone. It is a medicine in the entrance, and the entrance leads to the courtyard of the mosque, which is the widest among the Egyptian mosques, surrounded by the Awwain.

The mosque witnessed many changes that affected its status within the Fatimid state, its beginning was with the ruler's instructions to order God to “approve teaching at the mosque, and allow Al-Azhar scholars to teach and join him, to become the“ Fourth University in Egypt ”after the Mosque of Amr Ibn Al-Aas and the Mosque of Ahmed Ibn Tulun and the Mosque Al-Azhar.

The mosque was neglected for long periods until its corridors turned into warehouses for other merchants surrounding the area, until the era of the late President Mohamed Anwar Sadat, where the Bohr Shia sect requested permission to renew it by self-efforts, and Sadat called for the opening of the mosque, and since then the Bohr Shia who migrated to Egypt and settled As merchants under the auspices of the mosque and is open to all denominations by...

Al-Hakim Mosque, located near the historic Bab al-Futuh gate in Cairo, is a stunning example of Fatimid architecture and one of the city's hidden gems. Unlike some of the more frequently visited mosques, this one offers a more peaceful and contemplative atmosphere, making it an ideal place to explore Islamic history without the crowds.

The mosque’s scale is immediately impressive—its massive stone minarets, which date back to the 11th century, are among the oldest in Cairo. The open courtyard, surrounded by elegant arcades, creates a sense of space and tranquility. Recent renovations have been thoughtfully done, preserving the mosque's historical elements while making it clean and welcoming for visitors.

Inside, the simplicity of the prayer hall contrasts beautifully with the grandeur of its exterior. The columns and high ceilings give it an airy, spiritual feeling. It’s easy to imagine how this space has served worshippers for centuries, yet it remains functional and alive with quiet activity even today.

Visitors will appreciate how accessible and visitor-friendly the mosque is. Entry is free, and staff or volunteers are often present to share information or answer questions. Just like at other religious sites, it's important to dress modestly and be mindful of prayer times. The surrounding area also offers a glimpse into Old Cairo’s vibrant street life, adding depth to the experience.

Overall, Al-Hakim Mosque is a must-see for those interested in Cairo’s Islamic heritage. It may not be as famous as Al-Azhar or the Sultan Hassan Mosque, but it offers a serene, authentic encounter with Fatimid architecture and spiritual history. A truly enriching stop for travelers looking to go beyond the typical...

Al-Hakim Mosque, also known as Al-Anwar (The Illuminated), is a historic mosque located in Cairo, Egypt. It stands as a testament to the architectural and religious significance of the Fatimid era. Construction of the mosque was initiated by Caliph al-Aziz Billah in 990 CE and was completed by his son, al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, in 1013 CE. The mosque's architecture is a stunning example of Fatimid style, characterized by its unique blend of Islamic and Byzantine influences. Its most striking feature is its two minarets, which are considered among the oldest surviving minarets in Cairo. These minarets, with their distinctive square bases and cylindrical shafts, are a symbol of the mosque's enduring legacy. Al-Hakim Mosque has a rich history intertwined with the enigmatic figure of its namesake, Caliph al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah. This caliph was known for his eccentric and sometimes cruel behavior, leading to various theories about his disappearance and even his possible divinity. The mosque itself has experienced periods of neglect and restoration, reflecting the turbulent history of the region. Despite its historical significance, Al-Hakim Mosque has often been overshadowed by other iconic Islamic monuments in Cairo. However, in recent years, efforts have been made to restore and preserve this remarkable structure. Visitors to the mosque can appreciate its architectural beauty, explore its serene courtyard, and delve into the fascinating history of the Fatimid era. Al-Hakim Mosque continues to be a significant landmark in Cairo, offering a glimpse into the past and a reminder of the enduring legacy of Islamic architecture...